Trivia: “The first time the U.S. Open was played at a truly public course was in 2002. What was the course?” Answer below.
A special ‘thank you’ to Tina Malone-Wright for forwarding the following story. While we clearly offer an indoor, well-lit, and very warm golfing experience, devoid of both ice and snow, we definitely recognize the attraction and fun-factor noted in this article. The story can be found here, and below.
You don't have to fly south - give winter your best shot
The 'greens' may be stained with food colouring and the 'sand traps' made of snow, but flocks of duffers will soon be heading to ice-covered courses from Switzerland to PEI to hit 18 holes in the world's chilliest golf tourneys
DAVE MCGINN
From Friday's Globe and Mail
February 13, 2009 at 8:31 AM EST
Later this month, an 18-hole golf course that's sure to raise the eyebrows of most duffers will be built in the small town of Georgetown, PEI.
Like most courses in the province, it will be a full par 72. But the West Street Beach course will not be laid out on grass. It will be on the frozen surface of Georgetown Harbour.
Discarded Christmas trees will line the fairways to give golfers a much-needed sense of perspective in the snowy expanse. Putting greens will be painted onto the slippery surface using green food colouring. The course will even have "sand traps," although they'll be made of piles of snow.
"There's a lot of golfers in PEI and they want to play whenever they can," says Georgetown Mayor Peter Llewellyn of the town's venture into ice golf.
When the cold weather hits, most golfers in Canada must either pack away their bags for the season or pack their bags for Florida. And while some regular courses across the country let golfers play in the snow, ice golf offers a special opportunity to hit the links on frozen lakes and rivers.
Holes are dug with an auger, a tool usually used for ice fishing, and courses are often shorter than those on land, but the game is surprisingly like its fair-weather counterpart, players say.
Putting a tundra twist on the age-old game of golf is still a novelty, of course. But two years ago, Georgetown held its first International Ice Golf tournament in the hopes of boosting tourism. The event was based on the success of similar events around the world, such as the Chivas Snow Golf Championship in Switzerland and the World Ice Golf Championship in Greenland.
Georgetown's inaugural tourney attracted interest from players as far afield as Japan and the Caribbean. But last year, the tournament had to be cancelled for perhaps the most unlikely reason ever to nix a golf event - it was unseasonably warm.
"The harbour never froze," Mr. Llewellyn says.
The town decided to take a meteorological mulligan, and this year is pushing on with plans not only for a 16-team tournament to be held in March, but also to have the course open seven days a week for players to enjoy at their leisure.
"We'll keep it open for two or three weeks, depending on the weather," Mr. Llewellyn said. A round will cost about $10. "We expect to have golfers from all over PEI and we've got requests from Nova Scotia. They want to know when it's ready. Golfers want to come over and play."
Ice golf has taken off south of the border, too, with annual tournaments held in New Hampshire, Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Minnesota and Colorado.
Here in Canada, ice golf's two biggest hot spots - or cold spots - are Georgetown and Mulhurst Bay, Alta., where the Pigeon Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce has been holding an annual ice golf tournament since 1996. It regularly attracts more than 200 players from across the province.
"Most of our golfers are from Edmonton and Calgary," says Darlene Kobeluck, the event's organizer.
Greens there are made of outdoor carpeting. The holes are relatively short - most are about 120 yards - and players are allowed to use only two irons and a putter. But the game is still superior to the summer version in terms of sheer enjoyment, says Guy Gutenberg, a 44-year-old electrician.
"Fun-wise, there's no comparison," he says. Mr. Gutenberg, an avid golfer, has made the two-hour drive from his home in Sedgewick, Alta., to Pigeon Lake for the past seven years.
He learned of the tournament by chance. His son was in Cub Scouts at the time, and the chamber of commerce had asked the group to clean the grounds after the event. Mr. Gutenberg's wife signed up the family to help.
"We helped clean up and I said afterward, 'Don't expect me to do this next year.' " His wife wanted to know why. "I said, 'Because I'm going to be golfing. This looks like way too much fun.' "
He's been playing in the tournament ever since. And each year, he says, more friends who learn of the game are eager to join him.
"When I started, I went by myself. Now I've got eight people who come with me."
Derek Nicholson, a 52-year-old financial services adviser from Lower Montague, just south of Georgetown, had a similar reaction the first time he learned of the Georgetown ice golf tournament.
"I just said, 'My gosh, this is a great idea,' " he recalls.
Surprisingly, playing golf on a frozen lake is not much different than playing on grass, with one or two obvious exceptions, Mr. Nicholson says.
"It's a little more challenging because you have a few more layers of clothes on. And there's a few more obstacles that you have to look out for, like frozen pieces of different things on the ice."
But, no, searching for white balls in a field of snow is not an issue. Georgetown has solved that particular problem.
"We give them black balls," Mr. Llewellyn says.
And the answer: “The Black Course at Bethpage State Park in Farmingdale, New York”
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Friday, February 13, 2009
A Great Golf Story and a Great Golfer
Trivia: “How many total major championships – both amateur and professional – has Jack Nicklaus won? A) 16 B) 18 C) 20 D) 22” Answer below.
I’ll start today with the story, and then continue with my rather boring musings thereafter. This story was borrowed from the New York Times blogs. Here it is:
----------
December 3, 2008, 10:44 am
The Best Golf Story Ever Told by an Economist
By Steven D. Levitt
An economist friend, who is also an accomplished golfer, recently told me the following story.
He and two friends had made a pilgrimage to the birthplace of golf: the Old Course at St. Andrews, Scotland. They had managed to secure a tee time and were just about to tee off when the starter stopped them and told them to wait — he had a fourth player who would be joining them. The three friends were disappointed; what sort of schmuck were they going to get stuck with?
After brief introductions, the fourth player asked them what their handicaps were. A handicap in golf more or less corresponds to how many strokes you shoot over par on average. They told him their handicaps, which were three, four, and seven (which by the way, means they are exceptionally good recreational golfers).
The fourth player, who was standing on the tee with a set of right-handed clubs, said “O.K., great, I get my left-handed clubs” — the implication being that if he instead played left-handed, it would be a more even match. He headed back to his car, grabbed a set of left-handed clubs, and true to his word, proceeded to shoot a three over par 75.
Who was this mysterious fourth player? None other than the dashing Spaniard Seve Ballesteros. Golf fans everywhere have been saddened by Ballesteros’s shocking recent battle with a brain tumor.
Ballesteros, who retired last year, was a brilliant golfer who won three Open Championships, two Masters, and 82 other titles. He is best remembered for his flair and creativity: like hitting a shot from a car park in the 1979 Open Championship at Royal Lytham and St Annes.
My golfing friend conjectures that maybe playing left-handed on occasion helped Ballesteros learn to hit those creative shots which won him so many championships.
For instance, when your ball stops right next to a tree trunk, sometimes the only option is to flip a club around and try to swing left-handed. It is extremely difficult, because not only are you swinging left-handed, but you are using a club meant to be hit right-handed. My accomplished golfing friend has practiced this shot quite a bit, and says he once hit it 60 yards this way, but he averages about 20 yards.
He asked Seve that day how far he could hit it when in that situation. “About 150 yards,” Seve said. “It depends if I want a fade or a draw.”
----------
For all those of you who choose to give up on a round after an early double/triple/etc., and for all of you that prefer a defeatist, life-is-against-me attitude in any venture, I respectfully suggest you take a lesson at the feet of one of golf’s true greats, a true gentleman and an incredible battler. Seve has never quit. He’s never given up. And he’s never give in. Just search the web for stories of other golf greats that have faced this gritty Spaniard, a man who has received, and deservedly so, the utmost respect from his fellow competitors and spectators everywhere, and you’ll read about determination like you’ve never known before.
You can find Seve’s biography here, and his playing record here.
Unfortunately, as you may know, Seve is now facing the toughest battle of his life, the battle for his life. He’s taking on brain cancer this time round. Our hearts and prayers are with him. This terrible disease has never faced a more determined fighter. And once again, there’s a lesson for all of us in watching this man rage on against the fiercest competitor he’s ever faced, two titans going head to head.
The following message can be found on Seve's website.
I’ll start today with the story, and then continue with my rather boring musings thereafter. This story was borrowed from the New York Times blogs. Here it is:
----------
December 3, 2008, 10:44 am
The Best Golf Story Ever Told by an Economist
By Steven D. Levitt
An economist friend, who is also an accomplished golfer, recently told me the following story.
He and two friends had made a pilgrimage to the birthplace of golf: the Old Course at St. Andrews, Scotland. They had managed to secure a tee time and were just about to tee off when the starter stopped them and told them to wait — he had a fourth player who would be joining them. The three friends were disappointed; what sort of schmuck were they going to get stuck with?
After brief introductions, the fourth player asked them what their handicaps were. A handicap in golf more or less corresponds to how many strokes you shoot over par on average. They told him their handicaps, which were three, four, and seven (which by the way, means they are exceptionally good recreational golfers).
The fourth player, who was standing on the tee with a set of right-handed clubs, said “O.K., great, I get my left-handed clubs” — the implication being that if he instead played left-handed, it would be a more even match. He headed back to his car, grabbed a set of left-handed clubs, and true to his word, proceeded to shoot a three over par 75.
Who was this mysterious fourth player? None other than the dashing Spaniard Seve Ballesteros. Golf fans everywhere have been saddened by Ballesteros’s shocking recent battle with a brain tumor.
Ballesteros, who retired last year, was a brilliant golfer who won three Open Championships, two Masters, and 82 other titles. He is best remembered for his flair and creativity: like hitting a shot from a car park in the 1979 Open Championship at Royal Lytham and St Annes.
My golfing friend conjectures that maybe playing left-handed on occasion helped Ballesteros learn to hit those creative shots which won him so many championships.
For instance, when your ball stops right next to a tree trunk, sometimes the only option is to flip a club around and try to swing left-handed. It is extremely difficult, because not only are you swinging left-handed, but you are using a club meant to be hit right-handed. My accomplished golfing friend has practiced this shot quite a bit, and says he once hit it 60 yards this way, but he averages about 20 yards.
He asked Seve that day how far he could hit it when in that situation. “About 150 yards,” Seve said. “It depends if I want a fade or a draw.”
----------
For all those of you who choose to give up on a round after an early double/triple/etc., and for all of you that prefer a defeatist, life-is-against-me attitude in any venture, I respectfully suggest you take a lesson at the feet of one of golf’s true greats, a true gentleman and an incredible battler. Seve has never quit. He’s never given up. And he’s never give in. Just search the web for stories of other golf greats that have faced this gritty Spaniard, a man who has received, and deservedly so, the utmost respect from his fellow competitors and spectators everywhere, and you’ll read about determination like you’ve never known before.
You can find Seve’s biography here, and his playing record here.
Unfortunately, as you may know, Seve is now facing the toughest battle of his life, the battle for his life. He’s taking on brain cancer this time round. Our hearts and prayers are with him. This terrible disease has never faced a more determined fighter. And once again, there’s a lesson for all of us in watching this man rage on against the fiercest competitor he’s ever faced, two titans going head to head.
The following message can be found on Seve's website.
And lastly, for all of you that can appreciate a finely crafted wrist watch, you might want to consider the Limited-Edition, Luxury Golf Watch from Seve Ballesteros’ Golf Clubs, specifically the irons he used to win the Chunichi Crowns Open in 1991. Very clever, unique and, pardon the pun, timeless.
And the answer: “C) 20. He won six Masters, four U.S. Opens, three British [sic] Opens, five PGA Championships, and two U.S. Amateurs.”
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Golfweek Article on aboutGolf Simulators
Trivia: “Which brothers have both won on the PGA TOUR? A) Mike and Dave Hill B) David and Kevin Sutherland C) Curt and Tom Byrum D) Both A and C” Answer below.
I missed blogging on Wednesday. I meant to post this article by Golfweek on aboutGolf, and the company’s leader Bill Bales. AboutGolf will supply the golf simulators for Parmasters KW. You can find the article here, and also included below.
I missed blogging on Wednesday. I meant to post this article by Golfweek on aboutGolf, and the company’s leader Bill Bales. AboutGolf will supply the golf simulators for Parmasters KW. You can find the article here, and also included below.
AboutGolf: More than fun and games
By DAN MIROCHA
Assistant Editor
Bill Bales admits he was a skeptic [sic]at first. A self-proclaimed “stuck-up golf traditionalist,” he once dismissed indoor golf simulators as nothing more than an expensive novelty, an oversized video game at best.
But that was seven years ago, and Bales has turned 180 degrees. He became so consumed by simulators, he made them his livelihood. His company, AboutGolf, is a leading manufacturer of the devices and this year ranked No. 72 in Inc. magazine’s “Top 100 Consumer Products Companies.”
Now, AboutGolf hopes to fuel success with its latest model, the SimSurround, which advances the notion of a virtual environment to new heights. And with state-of-the-art ball-tracking technology, it provides golfers with data about their swing much like a launch monitor.
Bales, however, won’t be content just selling more units. What he really wants is respect. Not just for himself or for AboutGolf – for the entire golf simulator category. At a time when participation is stagnant, he says, golf can benefit from indoor simulators, which Bales describes as multi-purpose tools that can introduce newcomers to the sport, help players improve their swings and increase demand to play the real game.
But for the most part, Bales complains he’s a lone voice, receiving little support from the industry establishment, which he says isn’t creatively tackling age-old obstacles that keep people away from golf.
“The business of golf more than any business I’ve seen doesn’t understand the concept of the customer,” Bales says. Indoor golf, he argues, resolves troubling issues such as lack of time, poor weather and pace of play.
“You can play year round, play at night and play in the rain,” Bales says. “You can play 36 holes in two hours or one hole in two hours, and there’s nobody ever behind you or in front of you.”
Simulators also can provide a friendlier setting for newcomers, many of whom feel intimidated stepping up to the first tee on a real course or overwhelmed by the game’s many rules and protocols. Most important, rather than steal consumers from golf courses, simulators will spur play for all, Bales says.
Industry leaders don’t necessarily disagree with Bales, but few, if any, have endorsed simulators as grow-the-game tools or incorporated them into participation or instruction programs.
“Anything we can do to get a club in someone’s hands, if it’s in a simulator, it’s a little cliché, but it’s better than nothing,” says Bob Baldassari, a PGA of America teaching professional and general manager of PGA Village in Port St. Lucie, Fla.
Without widespread industry and consumer acceptance of simulators, AboutGolf’s long-term growth prospect is uncertain. But, thus far, lacking grass-roots support hasn’t hindered the Maumee, Ohio-based company.
AboutGolf – which launched in 2002 and was spawned from Bales’ software company that produced the computer game Microsoft Golf in the ’90s – has increased revenue from $2.8 million in 2004 to $10.7 million in 2007, earning its “Top 100” recognition from Inc.
Bales says new technology has been a key factor in selling to retail stores that use the product for club fitting. AboutGolf simulators recently upgraded from a radar-based system and now incorporate a three-dimensional, high-speed photography technology called 3Trak that provides a greater level of accuracy in tracking trajectory, velocity and spin.
“It’s more accurate than anything I’ve seen,” says Bill Baraban, director of instruction and club fitting for PGA Tour Superstore, which purchased 70 AboutGolf simulators for 10 of its retail stores. “It just makes our job easier to convince the customer that they’re on the right track. We don’t have a large number of returns because they go outside and the clubs work like they do inside.”
AboutGolf simulators also have been sold to about 60 Golf Galaxy locations that have opened since January 2003, according to Ron Hornbaker, the retail chain’s senior vice president of sales and operations. Bales says sales distribution in North America breaks down to 40 percent retailers, 40 percent indoor golf centers, 15 percent residential, and the balance to pro shops and other commercial enterprises.
At this year’s PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, Fla., AboutGolf debuted the SimSurround, a 25-foot-long-by-10-foot-high model that uses three screens to give players an enhanced viewing experience. In March, the company began shipping the SimSurround, which sells for $60,000. Bales says it has accounted for 30 percent of unit sales so far this year. (The company’s simulators start at $45,000.)
To reach the next growth plateau, Bales is considering creating his own retail business to showcase AboutGolf simulators. His “indoor golf facility of tomorrow,” he promises, will be unlike anything available today. His vision: Think part shooting range, part practice range, part video game. Perhaps, even an environment recreated from a movie scene.
“By traditional golf standards, you might consider it radical,” he says.
Bales acknowledges that traditionalists may frown upon his approach. But he insists simulators can “sell” the game in an exciting new way.
“The whole world of indoor golf reaches people that would never otherwise get out to the course,” Bales says. “If you’re executing a golf swing, you’re growing the game of golf.”
Dan Mirocha is a Golfweek assistant editor. To reach him e-mail dmirocha@golfweek.com.
Posted: 9/15/2008
And the answer: “D) Both A and C. The Hill brothers and the Byrum brothers have both won PGA TOUR events. Dave Hill has won 13 times, while Mike has won three times. Curt and Tom Byrum have each won once.”
By DAN MIROCHA
Assistant Editor
Bill Bales admits he was a skeptic [sic]at first. A self-proclaimed “stuck-up golf traditionalist,” he once dismissed indoor golf simulators as nothing more than an expensive novelty, an oversized video game at best.
But that was seven years ago, and Bales has turned 180 degrees. He became so consumed by simulators, he made them his livelihood. His company, AboutGolf, is a leading manufacturer of the devices and this year ranked No. 72 in Inc. magazine’s “Top 100 Consumer Products Companies.”
Now, AboutGolf hopes to fuel success with its latest model, the SimSurround, which advances the notion of a virtual environment to new heights. And with state-of-the-art ball-tracking technology, it provides golfers with data about their swing much like a launch monitor.
Bales, however, won’t be content just selling more units. What he really wants is respect. Not just for himself or for AboutGolf – for the entire golf simulator category. At a time when participation is stagnant, he says, golf can benefit from indoor simulators, which Bales describes as multi-purpose tools that can introduce newcomers to the sport, help players improve their swings and increase demand to play the real game.
But for the most part, Bales complains he’s a lone voice, receiving little support from the industry establishment, which he says isn’t creatively tackling age-old obstacles that keep people away from golf.
“The business of golf more than any business I’ve seen doesn’t understand the concept of the customer,” Bales says. Indoor golf, he argues, resolves troubling issues such as lack of time, poor weather and pace of play.
“You can play year round, play at night and play in the rain,” Bales says. “You can play 36 holes in two hours or one hole in two hours, and there’s nobody ever behind you or in front of you.”
Simulators also can provide a friendlier setting for newcomers, many of whom feel intimidated stepping up to the first tee on a real course or overwhelmed by the game’s many rules and protocols. Most important, rather than steal consumers from golf courses, simulators will spur play for all, Bales says.
Industry leaders don’t necessarily disagree with Bales, but few, if any, have endorsed simulators as grow-the-game tools or incorporated them into participation or instruction programs.
“Anything we can do to get a club in someone’s hands, if it’s in a simulator, it’s a little cliché, but it’s better than nothing,” says Bob Baldassari, a PGA of America teaching professional and general manager of PGA Village in Port St. Lucie, Fla.
Without widespread industry and consumer acceptance of simulators, AboutGolf’s long-term growth prospect is uncertain. But, thus far, lacking grass-roots support hasn’t hindered the Maumee, Ohio-based company.
AboutGolf – which launched in 2002 and was spawned from Bales’ software company that produced the computer game Microsoft Golf in the ’90s – has increased revenue from $2.8 million in 2004 to $10.7 million in 2007, earning its “Top 100” recognition from Inc.
Bales says new technology has been a key factor in selling to retail stores that use the product for club fitting. AboutGolf simulators recently upgraded from a radar-based system and now incorporate a three-dimensional, high-speed photography technology called 3Trak that provides a greater level of accuracy in tracking trajectory, velocity and spin.
“It’s more accurate than anything I’ve seen,” says Bill Baraban, director of instruction and club fitting for PGA Tour Superstore, which purchased 70 AboutGolf simulators for 10 of its retail stores. “It just makes our job easier to convince the customer that they’re on the right track. We don’t have a large number of returns because they go outside and the clubs work like they do inside.”
AboutGolf simulators also have been sold to about 60 Golf Galaxy locations that have opened since January 2003, according to Ron Hornbaker, the retail chain’s senior vice president of sales and operations. Bales says sales distribution in North America breaks down to 40 percent retailers, 40 percent indoor golf centers, 15 percent residential, and the balance to pro shops and other commercial enterprises.
At this year’s PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, Fla., AboutGolf debuted the SimSurround, a 25-foot-long-by-10-foot-high model that uses three screens to give players an enhanced viewing experience. In March, the company began shipping the SimSurround, which sells for $60,000. Bales says it has accounted for 30 percent of unit sales so far this year. (The company’s simulators start at $45,000.)
To reach the next growth plateau, Bales is considering creating his own retail business to showcase AboutGolf simulators. His “indoor golf facility of tomorrow,” he promises, will be unlike anything available today. His vision: Think part shooting range, part practice range, part video game. Perhaps, even an environment recreated from a movie scene.
“By traditional golf standards, you might consider it radical,” he says.
Bales acknowledges that traditionalists may frown upon his approach. But he insists simulators can “sell” the game in an exciting new way.
“The whole world of indoor golf reaches people that would never otherwise get out to the course,” Bales says. “If you’re executing a golf swing, you’re growing the game of golf.”
Dan Mirocha is a Golfweek assistant editor. To reach him e-mail dmirocha@golfweek.com.
Posted: 9/15/2008
And the answer: “D) Both A and C. The Hill brothers and the Byrum brothers have both won PGA TOUR events. Dave Hill has won 13 times, while Mike has won three times. Curt and Tom Byrum have each won once.”
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Monthly News and Chamber BA5
Trivia: “Why was Willie Anderson’s win at the 1902 Western Open so significant?” Answer below.
We issued another update to Parmasters KW members and “future members” yesterday. These updates go out monthly. If you haven’t already done so, you can register here. Personally, I believe yesterday’s golf tip and golf-related joke were well worth the effort!
Yesterday was a full day, start to finish. Most of it was spent on the monthly update and also a presentation to be delivered later this week.
We also had a life changing event yesterday. It’s a private matter, for all involved, and thus I won’t get into any details. I will say though, that I believe at times like this it’s so very important to remember that “life changing” can mean “life enhancing.” One never knows!
I’ll be working at a local Williams Coffee Pub this morning, while the afternoon will be spent in some offsite meetings as well as back in the Temporary Event Center at Market Square later in the afternoon. I will also likely attend that Greater KW Chamber of Commerce Business After 5 event late this afternoon.
For now, I’ll get back at it, and leave you with some favoured quotes.
“Treat people as if they were what they should be, and you help them become what they are capable of becoming.”
–Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
“Lord, grant me the courage to change those things I can,
Grant me the patience to accept those things I cannot change,
And grant me the wisdom to know the difference.”
-unknown
“If you focus on labeling people you make strangers of them. You never know the full half of their glass.”
-Robert L. McKnight (Northwestern U.)
And the answer: “Anderson, who scored 299, was the first to shoot under 300 in a 72-hole event in the United States.”
We issued another update to Parmasters KW members and “future members” yesterday. These updates go out monthly. If you haven’t already done so, you can register here. Personally, I believe yesterday’s golf tip and golf-related joke were well worth the effort!
Yesterday was a full day, start to finish. Most of it was spent on the monthly update and also a presentation to be delivered later this week.
We also had a life changing event yesterday. It’s a private matter, for all involved, and thus I won’t get into any details. I will say though, that I believe at times like this it’s so very important to remember that “life changing” can mean “life enhancing.” One never knows!
I’ll be working at a local Williams Coffee Pub this morning, while the afternoon will be spent in some offsite meetings as well as back in the Temporary Event Center at Market Square later in the afternoon. I will also likely attend that Greater KW Chamber of Commerce Business After 5 event late this afternoon.
For now, I’ll get back at it, and leave you with some favoured quotes.
“Treat people as if they were what they should be, and you help them become what they are capable of becoming.”
–Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
“Lord, grant me the courage to change those things I can,
Grant me the patience to accept those things I cannot change,
And grant me the wisdom to know the difference.”
-unknown
“If you focus on labeling people you make strangers of them. You never know the full half of their glass.”
-Robert L. McKnight (Northwestern U.)
And the answer: “Anderson, who scored 299, was the first to shoot under 300 in a 72-hole event in the United States.”
Monday, February 09, 2009
Busy Week Just Starting
Trivia: “When did Scotland form its Royal & Ancient (R&A) Golf Club’s Rules of Golf Committee? A) 1597 B) 1697 C) 1797 D) 1897” Answer below.
It’s another late night, unfortunately. It’s very late on Sunday evening as I write this, even though it won’t be posted until Monday morning. Well, I guess it’s technically very early on Monday morning as I write.
I mentioned Christopher Robson’s efforts related to the Nadia Gehl homicide. You can learn more on Facebook within the group titled “Gehl Homicide. KW residents lend your support!” Christopher is planning an event for this evening. I hope to attend but have several other commitments.
Sunday was fairly productive. I started with some writing and then segued to a decent workout and a reasonable, if short, run. I’ve been suffering with some right knee pain and my runs have been shorter of late. I have no idea what the problem is. After the run I worked a little more, primarily crafting a PowerPoint presentation to be delivered mid-next week, and then a few other odd jobs.
I took Sunday afternoon off, along with the evening of course, and just relaxed with my sons. For some reason they wanted to eat supper in the garage, so we did.
Later today we’ll issue another monthly update to Parmasters KW members, future members, shareholders and stakeholders. If you'd like to receive these brief email updates, please simply register here.
It’s going to be a busy week. So much work to do, it seems quite daunting a times. But then, as evidenced by my working at this bizarre hour, I’ve never been more energized or driven.
My eldest also plays hockey two evenings this week, before heading to London for a three-day hockey tournament. My youngest son will tag along as we travel from rink to restaurant to rink to restaurant to rink to ... Well, you get the idea. And Wednesday I have to be out of town. Hopefully that presentation will be ready. Add in a few workouts, household chores, possibly the Greater KW Chamber of Commerce Business After 5 event Tuesday evening, some writing, and I just may sleep a little better one week from now, on Sunday evening.
I’ll be working in the TEC today, Thursday and Friday, but not on Saturday. The expected hours are posted on the front door.
For now, time to get this week started!
And the answer: “D) 1897”
It’s another late night, unfortunately. It’s very late on Sunday evening as I write this, even though it won’t be posted until Monday morning. Well, I guess it’s technically very early on Monday morning as I write.
I mentioned Christopher Robson’s efforts related to the Nadia Gehl homicide. You can learn more on Facebook within the group titled “Gehl Homicide. KW residents lend your support!” Christopher is planning an event for this evening. I hope to attend but have several other commitments.
Sunday was fairly productive. I started with some writing and then segued to a decent workout and a reasonable, if short, run. I’ve been suffering with some right knee pain and my runs have been shorter of late. I have no idea what the problem is. After the run I worked a little more, primarily crafting a PowerPoint presentation to be delivered mid-next week, and then a few other odd jobs.
I took Sunday afternoon off, along with the evening of course, and just relaxed with my sons. For some reason they wanted to eat supper in the garage, so we did.
Later today we’ll issue another monthly update to Parmasters KW members, future members, shareholders and stakeholders. If you'd like to receive these brief email updates, please simply register here.
It’s going to be a busy week. So much work to do, it seems quite daunting a times. But then, as evidenced by my working at this bizarre hour, I’ve never been more energized or driven.
My eldest also plays hockey two evenings this week, before heading to London for a three-day hockey tournament. My youngest son will tag along as we travel from rink to restaurant to rink to restaurant to rink to ... Well, you get the idea. And Wednesday I have to be out of town. Hopefully that presentation will be ready. Add in a few workouts, household chores, possibly the Greater KW Chamber of Commerce Business After 5 event Tuesday evening, some writing, and I just may sleep a little better one week from now, on Sunday evening.
I’ll be working in the TEC today, Thursday and Friday, but not on Saturday. The expected hours are posted on the front door.
For now, time to get this week started!
And the answer: “D) 1897”
Saturday, February 07, 2009
Person of Interest Sought in Nadia Gehl Homicide
Trivia: “Which of the following is not considered a loose impediment? A) Pinecones B) Animal droppings C) Soda cans D) Twigs” Answer below.
It was another productive day yesterday, and today (Saturday) so far. Also a quite a day in news.
It seems I’m including a lot of news items lately. But then, it seems there have been a lot of blog-worthy news items lately.
Today we offer the good, the bad and the good. And the “bad” is sad beyond all belief. But, if we can help at all. We should.
The first “good”...
Whistle Bear has announced its 2009 Junior Performance Team. This was reported in the Waterloo Region Record here, and I’ve also included the article below. Congratulations to all!
And the “bad”...
A young Kitchener woman, Nadia Gehl, 28 years young, was found deceased on Monday morning of this week. The incident happened not far from my home.
It was another productive day yesterday, and today (Saturday) so far. Also a quite a day in news.
It seems I’m including a lot of news items lately. But then, it seems there have been a lot of blog-worthy news items lately.
Today we offer the good, the bad and the good. And the “bad” is sad beyond all belief. But, if we can help at all. We should.
The first “good”...
Whistle Bear has announced its 2009 Junior Performance Team. This was reported in the Waterloo Region Record here, and I’ve also included the article below. Congratulations to all!
And the “bad”...
A young Kitchener woman, Nadia Gehl, 28 years young, was found deceased on Monday morning of this week. The incident happened not far from my home.
Police are looking for the man pictured below, describing him as a “person of interest.”
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Ms. Gehl’s family and friends.
And lastly, the other “good”...
Christopher Robson, whom many of you met while he ran Membership Preview Events here at Parmasters KW, is doing all he can to help police crack this case. We’re proud of Christopher’s work, as reported by the Waterloo Region Record here, and reprinted below. Good work Chris!
GOLF Selections
February 07, 2009
THE RECORD
Whistle Bear Junior Performance Team Head Coach Dave Smallwood is happy to announce the following Juniors who have been selected to the 2009 team: Matthew Chiasson, Cambridge; Dylan Hamara, Cambridge; Taylor Prilisauer, Cambridge; Dylan Smallwood, Cambridge; Jason Watchorn, Waterloo; Jordan Williamson, Cambridge; Max Clift, Kitchener; Kirsten Degutis, Waterloo; Connor Doucette, Waterloo; Sterling Emery, Orangeville; Brett Kennedy, Kitchener; Stan McElroy, Kitchener.
The program is entering its third season and will consist of 12 junior players who receive weekly instruction from CPGA Professionals Dave Smallwood and Mike Skimson. The team members will also receive funding to participate in events throughout 2009.
Hunt for Nadia's killer moves into cyberspace
Search for suspect spreads through Facebook pages
February 6, 2009
April Robinson
Record Staff
Waterloo Region
And lastly, the other “good”...
Christopher Robson, whom many of you met while he ran Membership Preview Events here at Parmasters KW, is doing all he can to help police crack this case. We’re proud of Christopher’s work, as reported by the Waterloo Region Record here, and reprinted below. Good work Chris!
GOLF Selections
February 07, 2009
THE RECORD
Whistle Bear Junior Performance Team Head Coach Dave Smallwood is happy to announce the following Juniors who have been selected to the 2009 team: Matthew Chiasson, Cambridge; Dylan Hamara, Cambridge; Taylor Prilisauer, Cambridge; Dylan Smallwood, Cambridge; Jason Watchorn, Waterloo; Jordan Williamson, Cambridge; Max Clift, Kitchener; Kirsten Degutis, Waterloo; Connor Doucette, Waterloo; Sterling Emery, Orangeville; Brett Kennedy, Kitchener; Stan McElroy, Kitchener.
The program is entering its third season and will consist of 12 junior players who receive weekly instruction from CPGA Professionals Dave Smallwood and Mike Skimson. The team members will also receive funding to participate in events throughout 2009.
Hunt for Nadia's killer moves into cyberspace
Search for suspect spreads through Facebook pages
February 6, 2009
April Robinson
Record Staff
Waterloo Region
Christopher Robson broke down and cried when he heard what happened to Nadia Gehl.
He never met the 28-year-old Gehl, but her violent death Monday morning affected him -- and he felt driven to help.
So Robson, who works with troubled youth, hopped online.
He stayed up until 2 a.m. Wednesday, posting links to news stories on his Facebook profile and sending emails and instant messages to all his friends.
With Gehl's killer still at large, Robson, 25, felt desperate to share the information.
"Even if I'm not directly helping -- it's something I need to do as a community member," he said yesterday. "I just want to be able to put it out there."
Hundreds of other felt the same. By mid-afternoon yesterday, nearly 700 members had joined "Justice for Nadia Gehl," a Facebook group encouraging members to change their profile pictures to the sketch of a "person of interest" wanted by police and to pass on any information investigators.
Police say the man in the sketch was seen running from the scene about the time Gehl was shot to death on a path she took to catch the bus to work.
Another Facebook group, "In Loving Memory of Nadia Gehl," had more than 1,300 members yesterday afternoon.
It is a place where friends and family share condolences and memories. It's also a way to spread information, which can help the police investigation, said Insp. Steve Beckett of Waterloo Regional Police.
"The more knowledge of the incident that's out there, the more likely somebody may come forward and provide us with information," he said. "It's certainly helpful."
Large Facebook groups popped up after the 2005 Boxing Day shooting of Jane Creba on Yonge Street in Toronto and during the hunt for triple-killer Jesse Imeson in July 2007.
"You see a lot more of that now," Beckett said.
"It's a mechanism that people look for to be able to share their fears, their feelings, their grief and to be able to comfort other people."
Jaclyn Jacobs, who lives on Wilderness Drive, a few houses away from where Gehl was shot, said she invited 100 of her Facebook friends to join the "Justice for Nadia Gehl" group.
She also used the police sketch as her profile picture in hopes someone might recognize it.
"Any help I can do as someone who cares, I'm there," said Jacobs, 44.
Like more than 150 million people around the world, Jacobs uses the social networking site to keep in touch with family and friends. It makes sense it be used to help police in their search, she said.
There is also a healing effect knowing you might make a difference, said Ashley Meyer, a 20-year-old cashier who worked with Gehl at Toys "R" Us. She, too, changed her Facebook picture to the police sketch.
"It helps," she said, still shaken by the loss. "I want people to recognize the picture and help us find him."
arobinson@therecord.com
And the answer: “C) Soda cans. Loose impediments are defined as naturally occurring objects and are considered part of the course.”
So Robson, who works with troubled youth, hopped online.
He stayed up until 2 a.m. Wednesday, posting links to news stories on his Facebook profile and sending emails and instant messages to all his friends.
With Gehl's killer still at large, Robson, 25, felt desperate to share the information.
"Even if I'm not directly helping -- it's something I need to do as a community member," he said yesterday. "I just want to be able to put it out there."
Hundreds of other felt the same. By mid-afternoon yesterday, nearly 700 members had joined "Justice for Nadia Gehl," a Facebook group encouraging members to change their profile pictures to the sketch of a "person of interest" wanted by police and to pass on any information investigators.
Police say the man in the sketch was seen running from the scene about the time Gehl was shot to death on a path she took to catch the bus to work.
Another Facebook group, "In Loving Memory of Nadia Gehl," had more than 1,300 members yesterday afternoon.
It is a place where friends and family share condolences and memories. It's also a way to spread information, which can help the police investigation, said Insp. Steve Beckett of Waterloo Regional Police.
"The more knowledge of the incident that's out there, the more likely somebody may come forward and provide us with information," he said. "It's certainly helpful."
Large Facebook groups popped up after the 2005 Boxing Day shooting of Jane Creba on Yonge Street in Toronto and during the hunt for triple-killer Jesse Imeson in July 2007.
"You see a lot more of that now," Beckett said.
"It's a mechanism that people look for to be able to share their fears, their feelings, their grief and to be able to comfort other people."
Jaclyn Jacobs, who lives on Wilderness Drive, a few houses away from where Gehl was shot, said she invited 100 of her Facebook friends to join the "Justice for Nadia Gehl" group.
She also used the police sketch as her profile picture in hopes someone might recognize it.
"Any help I can do as someone who cares, I'm there," said Jacobs, 44.
Like more than 150 million people around the world, Jacobs uses the social networking site to keep in touch with family and friends. It makes sense it be used to help police in their search, she said.
There is also a healing effect knowing you might make a difference, said Ashley Meyer, a 20-year-old cashier who worked with Gehl at Toys "R" Us. She, too, changed her Facebook picture to the police sketch.
"It helps," she said, still shaken by the loss. "I want people to recognize the picture and help us find him."
arobinson@therecord.com
And the answer: “C) Soda cans. Loose impediments are defined as naturally occurring objects and are considered part of the course.”
Friday, February 06, 2009
Mike Weir Creates a Great Week!
Trivia: “Which two golf courses have most often played host to the U.S. Open? A) Baltusrol and Oakmont B) Baltusrol and Winged Foot C) Olympia Fields and Inverness D) Oakmont and Oakland Hills” Answer below.
My productivity on Thursday was comfortably up and into the zone where I’d prefer it always remain. Put simply, I got a lot done. And since I try to begin each day with a clear perspective on the most appropriate tasks for the day, I got a lot of the right things done. (My apologies. That’s terrible manipulation of the Queen’s English. While I do believe that the point hath been duly conveyed, I’m equally certain that my dearly departed high school English grammar teacher, Mrs. Ballard, is none too pleased.)
I was able to, for the most part, create my day yesterday, which is always quite satisfying. And also, always quite within our grasp.
It seems one Mr. Mike Weir has created his days quite often in the past, both recent and distant, landing him this past week firmly into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame! Fantastic news! You can read recent National Post coverage, titled “Weir gets an early call from the hall of fame”, both here and included in this entry below.
My productivity on Thursday was comfortably up and into the zone where I’d prefer it always remain. Put simply, I got a lot done. And since I try to begin each day with a clear perspective on the most appropriate tasks for the day, I got a lot of the right things done. (My apologies. That’s terrible manipulation of the Queen’s English. While I do believe that the point hath been duly conveyed, I’m equally certain that my dearly departed high school English grammar teacher, Mrs. Ballard, is none too pleased.)
I was able to, for the most part, create my day yesterday, which is always quite satisfying. And also, always quite within our grasp.
It seems one Mr. Mike Weir has created his days quite often in the past, both recent and distant, landing him this past week firmly into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame! Fantastic news! You can read recent National Post coverage, titled “Weir gets an early call from the hall of fame”, both here and included in this entry below.
It was nice to see that Weir’s induction also rated coverage in the International Herald Tribune in their “Names in the Game” composite column, found here and included below.
Earlier this week Weir’s winery, Mike Weir Wine, announced a five-year partnership with distributor Diageo Canada, making Weir’s firm one of the very few Ontario VQA wineries to have distribution across all of Canada. You can find the press release here, and also included below.
So while Weir was busily heading off the Hall of Fame, I was back here dealing with more pressing matters. OK, maybe “pressing” is a bit of a stretch. Maybe “matters” is even a stretch. But I did manage to cull a few blog entries from the past and plop them into the top of the right hand column on this blog. This Featured Blog Posts section will evolve over time.
I’m now wondering about changing the background template for this blog again. I’d simply prefer to include more relevant links, news, etc., all on the first screen or two. I’ll add the task to my to-do list and pursue it during some needed fun/frivolous down time in the future.
Weir gets an early call from hall of fame
'He's Done A Lot'
Jeremy Sandler, National Post
Published: Friday, February 06, 2009
Early February is a slow time at Huron Oaks Golf Course in Bright's Grove, Ont.
Snow covered the tee boxes and greens outside the windows for the few paying customers sipping beer and playing euchre inside the clubhouse bar yesterday.
But the weather belied the warm news that the club's former employee and junior star Mike Weir had been inducted into Canada's Golf Hall of Fame.
"Most of the members have been long-time members and most of them knew Mike, or knew of Mike if not knew him personally, way back when," said Jay Peters, who bought the club in 2003, the same year Weir's victory at The Masters made him the first Canadian to win a major golf tournament. "He's done a lot for the game of golf in Canada."
Including his playoff win over Len Mattiace at Augusta, Weir owns eight PGA Tour wins.
That ties the 38-year-old with fellow Hall of Famer George Knudson for the most ever by a Canadian on the PGA Tour.
"I would have been shocked and stunned if he didn't get that honour at some point in time, given his career to date," Peters said. "He's certainly, if not the greatest Canadian golfer, he's certainly right up there."
According to former PGA professional Richard Zokol of Vancouver, there is no question about that.
"Those eight tournaments were in an era where the competition was significantly greater than when George played, number one," said Zokol, the winner of the 1992 Greater Milwaukee Open. "Number two, and foremost, is that he won The Masters and was the first Canadian to ever win a professional major."
Karen Hewson, the director of the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame and historian for the RCGA, agreed with Zokol.
"You always need some perspective before you can pass judgment," she said. "I'm comfortable saying his impact is equal to or probably exceeding anybody else that's probably been on either [the PGA or the LPGA] Tour from Canada at this point."
Hewson said Weir's Masters win coupled with expanded media coverage has given the left-hander a profile beyond any other golfer in Canadian history.
"I don't think too many Canadians wouldn't know who Mike Weir is," she said. "There haven't been a lot of Canadian golfers you can say that about."
In addition to his PGA Tour success, Weir has also represented Canada on the international team for the Presidents Cup four times and played on three World Cup teams for Canada.
A two-time winner on the Canadian Tour, Weir also won the Ontario Amateur championship and was a runner-up in the Canadian Amateur before he turned pro in 1992.
"I am extremely honoured to share a place in the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame with the many names who have done so much for golf in Canada," he said in a statement sent out by the RCGA. "I have so much that I still want to accomplish both on the course and in helping to continue to grow the game in Canada, but this honour will always rank as one of the greatest of my career. I'd like to thank the RCGA, the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame, and Canadian fans for this honour and their support."
Zokol said Weir becoming the 20th player and 64th member inducted into the Hall of Fame should not be seen as an end for Weir, who two weeks ago opened his 2009 season with a tie for third at the Bob Hope Classic.
He pointed to golfers like world No. 5 Vijay Singh and ninth-ranked Kenny Perry, both of whom are well into their forties.
"I think Mike's right in the middle of his prime, he's not there yet," Zokol said. "I think of Vijay who's won most of his tournaments above 40. I think Mike's best performances could still be in front of him."
jsandler@nationalpost.com
CANADIAN PGA WINNERS
Mike Weir -8
Air Canada Championship, 1999; WGCAmerican Express Championship, 2000; The Tour Championship, 2001; Bob Hope Chrysler Classic, 2003; Nissan Open, 2003; The Masters, 2003; Nissan Open, 2004; Fry's Electronics Open, 2007
George Knudson -8
Coral Gables Open Invitational, 1961; Portland Open, 1963; Fresno Open, 1964; Greater New Orleans Open Invitational, 1967; Phoenix Open Invitational, 1968; Tucson Open Invitational, 1968; Robinson Open Golf Classic, 1970; Kaiser International Open Invitational, 1972
Al Balding -4
Stephen Ames -3
Stan Leonard -3
Dave Barr -2
Dan Halldorson -1
Ian Leggatt -1
Richard Zokol -1
Names in the Game
The Associated Press
Published: February 5, 2009
OAKVILLE, Ontario: Former Masters champion Mike Weir, whose eight PGA Tour victories matches a record for Canadian golfers, has been elected to the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame.
Weir will be inducted during the week of July 20-26 at Glen Abbey Golf Club during the 100th edition of the RBC Canadian Open.
"I have so much that I still want to accomplish both on the course and in helping to continue to grow the game in Canada, but this honor will always rank as one of the greatest of my career," Weir said.
Weir is tied with George Knudson for most PGA Tour wins by a Canadian. He is the only Canadian to capture a major, winning the 2003 Masters in a sudden-death playoff.
The 38-year-old played on four Presidents Cup teams, beating Tiger Woods in a singles match two years ago at Royal Montreal.
Attention Wine/Food & Beverage Writers/Lifestyle Editors:
Mike Weir announces partnership with Diageo Canada for national representation
NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, ON
Feb. 2 /CNW/
Legendary Canadian golf icon and burgeoning winemaker Mike Weir announced details today of a representation agreement with Diageo Canada. Under the distribution agreement, Diageo Canada will add the award-winning Mike Weir Wine to its portfolio of international brands.
With a focus on superior quality, Mike Weir Wines have become a critical and consumer success story since their inception, and one of the fastest growing VQA wines in Canadian history.
"I have always considered myself an Ambassador for Niagara wines and have proudly served my wines all over the world", says Mike Weir. "Partnering with Diageo Canada will allow us to grow brand awareness and value, gain greater access for Ontario wineries and also benefit my Foundation".
Proceeds from the sale of Mike Weir Wine have always gone to the Mike Weir Foundation, which was started in 2004 by Mike and his wife Bricia.
"We are pleased to be working with Mike Weir VQA Wines, and confident this partnership will compliment everyone involved", says Debra Kelly-Ennis, President and CEO, Diageo Canada. "This is a really strong addition to our wines portfolio and a good strategic fit, with our shared focus of growth and opportunities."
This five-year distribution agreement is specific to Canada, and will make Mike Weir one of the few Ontario VQA wineries to have distribution across Canada.
"We were very impressed by Diageo Canada's commitment to excellence and the quality of their staff and portfolio", says Barry Katzman, President, Mike Weir Wine Inc. "This is an arrangement that will open doors for our wines, and VQA products in general. We are thrilled to be included amongst Diageo'sportfolio of world class brands".
"We are confident Mike Weir wines will continue to grow and benefit from our sales, distribution and execution expertise, as well as support the communities in which we work and do business", adds Kelly-Ennis.
About Mike Weir Wines
Mike Weir Winery was established in 2005 with 5000 cases of VQA wine. The wine is currently available in every Province in Canada and current production is 30,000 cases made in partnership with Chateau des Charmes winery in Niagara-on-the-lake. The company unveiled plans in November for the building of a new Winery and Hospitality Centre in conjunction with the Niagara Parks Commission adjacent to Whirlpool Golf Course in Niagara Falls.
About Diageo
Diageo (Dee-AH-Gee-O) is the world's leading premium drinks business with an outstanding collection of beverage alcohol brands across spirits, wine and beer. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Guinness, Smirnoff, J&B, Baileys, Cuervo, Tanqueray, Captain Morgan, Crown Royal, Beaulieu Vineyard and Sterling Vineyards wines.
Diageo is a global company, trading in some 180 countries around the world. The company is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (DGE). For more information about Diageo, its people, brands, and performance, visit us at http://www.diageo.com.
Celebrating life, every day, everywhere, responsibly
For further information: Barry Katzman, President, Mike Weir Wines, bkatzman@mikeweirwine.com, (905) 651-5506, www.mikeweirwine.com; Jim Weir, Mike Weir Foundation, jweir@imgworld.com, (519) 384-0833; Alanna Stone, Manager, PR & Communications, Diageo Canada Inc., alanna.stone@diageo.com, (416) 626-2000 ext. 6662
And the answer: “A) Baltusrol and Oakmont at seven times each”
And the answer: “A) Baltusrol and Oakmont at seven times each”
Thursday, February 05, 2009
Why Are Golf Balls Dimpled?
Trivia: “Who owns the all-time record for the most consecutive PGA TOUR victories? A) Ben Hogan B) Byron Nelson C) Tiger Woods D) Jack Nicklaus” Answer below.
I stumbled across this article recently, and found it quite interesting. This may help the next time you have some time to kill on the tee box, or you find a lull in the conversation at a soiree of some sort. You can wow your audience with your vast golf ball knowledge! Good luck!
The article is included below and can also be found here.
Why Are Golf Balls Dimpled?
The dimples, paradoxically, do increase drag slightly. But they also increase "Magnus lift", that peculiar lifting force experienced by rotating bodies travelling through a medium. Magnus lift is present because a driven golf ball has backspin. The same Magnus effect can cause a ball to hook or slice if it has sideways spin.
Contrary to simple ideas of trajectories in a vacuum, golf balls do not travel in inverted parabolas. They follow an "impetus trajectory":
I stumbled across this article recently, and found it quite interesting. This may help the next time you have some time to kill on the tee box, or you find a lull in the conversation at a soiree of some sort. You can wow your audience with your vast golf ball knowledge! Good luck!
The article is included below and can also be found here.
Why Are Golf Balls Dimpled?
The dimples, paradoxically, do increase drag slightly. But they also increase "Magnus lift", that peculiar lifting force experienced by rotating bodies travelling through a medium. Magnus lift is present because a driven golf ball has backspin. The same Magnus effect can cause a ball to hook or slice if it has sideways spin.
Contrary to simple ideas of trajectories in a vacuum, golf balls do not travel in inverted parabolas. They follow an "impetus trajectory":
This is because of the combination of drag (which reduces horizontal speed late in the trajectory) and Magnus lift (which supports the ball during the initial part of the trajectory, making it relatively straight). The trajectory can even curve upwards at first, depending on conditions! Here we see a golf ball in flight, with some relevant vectors:
A golf ball leaves the tee with a speed of about 70 m/s and a backspin of at least 50 rev/s. The Magnus force can be thought of as due to the relative drag on the air on the top and bottom portions of the golf ball: the top portion is moving slower relative to the air around it, so there is less drag on the air that goes over the ball. The boundary layer is relatively thin, and air in the not-too-near region moves rapidly relative to the ball. The bottom portion moves fast relative to the air around it; there is more drag on the air passing by the bottom, and the boundary (turbulent) layer is relatively thick; air in the not-too-near region moves more slowly relative to the ball. The Bernoulli force produces lift. (Alternatively, one could say that "the flow lines past the ball are displaced down, so the ball is pushed up.")
A difficulty comes near the transition region between laminar flow and turbulent flow. At low speeds, the flow around the ball is laminar. As speed is increased, the bottom part tends to go turbulent first. But turbulent flow can follow a surface much more easily than laminar flow.
As a result, the laminar flow lines around the top break away from the surface sooner than otherwise, and there is a net upward displacement of the flow lines. The Magnus lift becomes negative.
The dimples aid the rapid formation of a turbulent boundary layer around the golf ball in flight, giving more lift. Without them the ball would travel in more of a parabolic trajectory, hitting the ground sooner (and not coming straight down). This was discovered by accident in the early days of golf when golfers noticed that old roughened golf balls went further.
Despite the drag, a dimpled golf ball can even go farther in air than it would in vacuum given the same initial velocity and low angle. However, a golf ball shot at 45° and 70 m/s in vacuum would go 500 metres to the first bounce, which exceeds all records.
References:
Lord Rayleigh, "On the Irregular Flight of a Tennis Ball", Scientific Papers I, pg 344.
Briggs Lyman J., "Effect of Spin and Speed on the Lateral Deflection of a Baseball; and the Magnus Effect for Smooth Spheres", Am. J. Phys. 27, 589 (1959). Briggs was trying to explain the mechanism behind the "curve ball" in baseball, using specialized apparatus in a wind tunnel at the NBS. He stumbled on the reverse effect by accident, because his model "baseball" had no stitches on it. The stitches on a baseball create turbulence in flight in much the same way that the dimples on a golf ball do.
R. Watts and R. Ferver, "The Lateral Force on a Spinning Sphere Aerodynamics of a Curveball", Am. J. Phys. 55, 40 (1986).
Steve Haake, "Physics and Golf? You must be joking!" Physics World 10, 76 (1997).
Journal of Applied Physics 20, 821 (1949) by Davies.
American Journal of Physics 56, 933 (1988) by McPhee and Andrews.
"The Physics of Golf" by Theodore P. Jorgensen
And the answer: “B) Byron Nelson, who won 11 straight victories in 1945”
A difficulty comes near the transition region between laminar flow and turbulent flow. At low speeds, the flow around the ball is laminar. As speed is increased, the bottom part tends to go turbulent first. But turbulent flow can follow a surface much more easily than laminar flow.
As a result, the laminar flow lines around the top break away from the surface sooner than otherwise, and there is a net upward displacement of the flow lines. The Magnus lift becomes negative.
The dimples aid the rapid formation of a turbulent boundary layer around the golf ball in flight, giving more lift. Without them the ball would travel in more of a parabolic trajectory, hitting the ground sooner (and not coming straight down). This was discovered by accident in the early days of golf when golfers noticed that old roughened golf balls went further.
Despite the drag, a dimpled golf ball can even go farther in air than it would in vacuum given the same initial velocity and low angle. However, a golf ball shot at 45° and 70 m/s in vacuum would go 500 metres to the first bounce, which exceeds all records.
References:
Lord Rayleigh, "On the Irregular Flight of a Tennis Ball", Scientific Papers I, pg 344.
Briggs Lyman J., "Effect of Spin and Speed on the Lateral Deflection of a Baseball; and the Magnus Effect for Smooth Spheres", Am. J. Phys. 27, 589 (1959). Briggs was trying to explain the mechanism behind the "curve ball" in baseball, using specialized apparatus in a wind tunnel at the NBS. He stumbled on the reverse effect by accident, because his model "baseball" had no stitches on it. The stitches on a baseball create turbulence in flight in much the same way that the dimples on a golf ball do.
R. Watts and R. Ferver, "The Lateral Force on a Spinning Sphere Aerodynamics of a Curveball", Am. J. Phys. 55, 40 (1986).
Steve Haake, "Physics and Golf? You must be joking!" Physics World 10, 76 (1997).
Journal of Applied Physics 20, 821 (1949) by Davies.
American Journal of Physics 56, 933 (1988) by McPhee and Andrews.
"The Physics of Golf" by Theodore P. Jorgensen
And the answer: “B) Byron Nelson, who won 11 straight victories in 1945”
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
Traditional Golf Swing Simplified
Trivia: “What father-son tandem won their respective PGA TOUR and Champions Tour events on the same day in 1999?” Answer below.
Thanks to Jay Paterson again for this insightful summary!
(I do not currently have an original author citation. I believe this is public domain.)
So now that you understand the traditional golf swing, and have mastered its many subtleties, if you have any interest in playing at least 25% better – yes, twenty-five percent! – as measured by your handicap improvement (or your scores relative to par), come see us at Parmasters KW the very moment we open our doors.
We GUARANTEE results! You will be 25% better, or your money back, or we’ll work with you until you achieve that 25% improvement. Period.
You can read more about Straight-Line Golf on the Parmasters website or in this previous blog entry.
To follow along as we work to open Parmasters KW, please register for monthly email updates!
And the answer: “Bob and David Duval. David won THE PLAYERS Championship the same day his father won the Emerald Coast Classic: March 28, 1999.”
Thanks to Jay Paterson again for this insightful summary!
(I do not currently have an original author citation. I believe this is public domain.)
So now that you understand the traditional golf swing, and have mastered its many subtleties, if you have any interest in playing at least 25% better – yes, twenty-five percent! – as measured by your handicap improvement (or your scores relative to par), come see us at Parmasters KW the very moment we open our doors.
We GUARANTEE results! You will be 25% better, or your money back, or we’ll work with you until you achieve that 25% improvement. Period.
You can read more about Straight-Line Golf on the Parmasters website or in this previous blog entry.
To follow along as we work to open Parmasters KW, please register for monthly email updates!
And the answer: “Bob and David Duval. David won THE PLAYERS Championship the same day his father won the Emerald Coast Classic: March 28, 1999.”
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Whether you think you can...
Trivia: “Who was the first player to break 80 at The Old Course at St. Andrews?” Answer below.
I’m taking a different tact today. I was simply too exhausted last night to work very productively, and yet had a few things left in the day that I had hoped to accomplish. Instead of working into the night, I slotted those tasks into an early rise this morning. So far, so good.
Yesterday was full of much work and also some good conversation. As I took my eldest son to his orthodontic appointment, he learned that his braces will likely come off in March. I enjoyed some wonderful conversation over lunch and in the early evening, the latter occurring as I watched Tina Malone-Wright’s son both learn and teach some complex skating moves. I thought it very kind, the way he offered to help his skating lesson classmates.
I also passed along a business idea to my two sons. As the idea is theirs now, not mine, I shall not share it here. This despite my firm belief that ideas are a dime a dozen. Execution is the key! With March break just around the corner, they have ample time to get started, should they choose. We’ll see. You can lead a horse to water...
My eldest son at one point said something to the effect, “Well, I’ll try it. But I don’t think it’s going to work.”
This of course led me to quote Henry Ford, “Whether you think you can or whether you think you can’t, you’re right.”
Later in the evening I enjoyed a brief workout and then some reading. The reading brought me to the following poem, which seemed more than worthy of sharing.
If you think you are beaten, you are,
If you think you dare not, you don’t
If you like to win, but you think you can’t,
It is almost certain you won’t.
If you think you’ll lose, you’re lost
For out of the world we find,
Success begins with a fellow’s will –
It’s all in the state of mind.
If you think you are outclassed, you are,
You’ve got to think high to rise,
You’ve got to be sure of yourself before
You can ever win a prize.
Life’s battles don’t always go
To the stronger or faster man,
But soon or late the man who wins
Is the man who thinks he can!
Borrowed from The New Think and Grow Rich, by Ted Ciuba and Napoleon Hill, p. 38.
Tomorrow... we’ll show you all you’ll ever need to know about the traditional golf swing. Thanks to Jay Paterson in advance!
And the answer: “Allan Robertson, who shot 79 in 1858”
I’m taking a different tact today. I was simply too exhausted last night to work very productively, and yet had a few things left in the day that I had hoped to accomplish. Instead of working into the night, I slotted those tasks into an early rise this morning. So far, so good.
Yesterday was full of much work and also some good conversation. As I took my eldest son to his orthodontic appointment, he learned that his braces will likely come off in March. I enjoyed some wonderful conversation over lunch and in the early evening, the latter occurring as I watched Tina Malone-Wright’s son both learn and teach some complex skating moves. I thought it very kind, the way he offered to help his skating lesson classmates.
I also passed along a business idea to my two sons. As the idea is theirs now, not mine, I shall not share it here. This despite my firm belief that ideas are a dime a dozen. Execution is the key! With March break just around the corner, they have ample time to get started, should they choose. We’ll see. You can lead a horse to water...
My eldest son at one point said something to the effect, “Well, I’ll try it. But I don’t think it’s going to work.”
This of course led me to quote Henry Ford, “Whether you think you can or whether you think you can’t, you’re right.”
Later in the evening I enjoyed a brief workout and then some reading. The reading brought me to the following poem, which seemed more than worthy of sharing.
If you think you are beaten, you are,
If you think you dare not, you don’t
If you like to win, but you think you can’t,
It is almost certain you won’t.
If you think you’ll lose, you’re lost
For out of the world we find,
Success begins with a fellow’s will –
It’s all in the state of mind.
If you think you are outclassed, you are,
You’ve got to think high to rise,
You’ve got to be sure of yourself before
You can ever win a prize.
Life’s battles don’t always go
To the stronger or faster man,
But soon or late the man who wins
Is the man who thinks he can!
Borrowed from The New Think and Grow Rich, by Ted Ciuba and Napoleon Hill, p. 38.
Tomorrow... we’ll show you all you’ll ever need to know about the traditional golf swing. Thanks to Jay Paterson in advance!
And the answer: “Allan Robertson, who shot 79 in 1858”
Monday, February 02, 2009
Six (or Seven) More Weeks of Winter
Trivia: “When did golf begin in St. Andrews, Scotland?” Answer below.
Apparently several furry subterranean dwellers spotted their respective shadows this morning. I was fully aware of the American rodent, and of course our own Wiarton Willie. But I was not in the know, until this morning, that there is a third prognosticator living, and burrowing perhaps, somewhere in our Canadian Maritimes. I’m glad to have learned something new today!
The shadow spotting begets a prediction of six more weeks of winter. Of course, since we technically have SEVEN more weeks of winter remaining, we can’t be all that upset with the furry weather-persons.
I’m also told there was a bit of a football game on last night. My eldest wanted to watch it, and so we did, for the most part. I’m more of a CFL guy myself. I did enjoy Mr. Springsteen and his on-again, off-again partners, the E Street Band at halftime. Although it did seem that Bruce was a little out of breath for most of the performance.
I don’t have any meeting scheduled today. Just lots of work and some errands to run this morning. I’ll be working at our Temporary Event Center at Market Square this afternoon.
I found today’s trivia item to be both inspiring and humbling. We do operate within a truly GRAND OLD game. While we hope to make golf more accessible and enjoyable for the masses, it’s also clear that we’re merely a blip in the golfing ocean, both in terms of today’s huge industry, and in the historical context. But, as always, we strive to do what we can, each and every day, doing all that we can in a successful and professional manner. Which reminds me, that I should get back to that...
And the answer: “The earliest surviving reference to the game is in Archbishop Hamilton’s Charter in 1552, which gave St. Andrews residents the right to play golf on the linksland.”
Apparently several furry subterranean dwellers spotted their respective shadows this morning. I was fully aware of the American rodent, and of course our own Wiarton Willie. But I was not in the know, until this morning, that there is a third prognosticator living, and burrowing perhaps, somewhere in our Canadian Maritimes. I’m glad to have learned something new today!
The shadow spotting begets a prediction of six more weeks of winter. Of course, since we technically have SEVEN more weeks of winter remaining, we can’t be all that upset with the furry weather-persons.
I’m also told there was a bit of a football game on last night. My eldest wanted to watch it, and so we did, for the most part. I’m more of a CFL guy myself. I did enjoy Mr. Springsteen and his on-again, off-again partners, the E Street Band at halftime. Although it did seem that Bruce was a little out of breath for most of the performance.
I don’t have any meeting scheduled today. Just lots of work and some errands to run this morning. I’ll be working at our Temporary Event Center at Market Square this afternoon.
I found today’s trivia item to be both inspiring and humbling. We do operate within a truly GRAND OLD game. While we hope to make golf more accessible and enjoyable for the masses, it’s also clear that we’re merely a blip in the golfing ocean, both in terms of today’s huge industry, and in the historical context. But, as always, we strive to do what we can, each and every day, doing all that we can in a successful and professional manner. Which reminds me, that I should get back to that...
And the answer: “The earliest surviving reference to the game is in Archbishop Hamilton’s Charter in 1552, which gave St. Andrews residents the right to play golf on the linksland.”
Saturday, January 31, 2009
A New President and a New Goal!
Trivia: “You accidentally breach the rules during the playoff of a stroke-play competition and are disqualified. Are you disqualified from the competition or just from the playoff round?” Answer below.
It’s been a busy, productive and enlightening Saturday thus far. I started off with some office work and then quickly transitioned into some snow shovelling, grocery shopping and house work.
During the latter half of the morning I attended a lecture at the University of Waterloo titled “What it does(n’t) mean to be adopted.” A clever title, indeed. And since I came to my family, my parents, via adoption, I was intrigued. I’m glad I attended!
I also heard this morning that a young, budding hockey star, Tina Malone-Wright’s son, scored his first goal of the season this morning! He went to the net and handily picked up a very juicy rebound. Way to go!
In golf news, the Golf Association of Ontario has a new President. Universitysport.ca has reported that Liz Hoffman was named by the GAO on January 24, 2009. You can find the full story here, and also included verbatim below. Ms. Hoffman comes to the role as an accomplished golfer, bearing a highly decorated and extensive resume in sport and sport administration. She takes over from Waterloo resident, and outgoing 2008 President, Steve James. This sounds like great news for the GAO and golf in Ontario!
Liz Hoffman named 2009 President of the Golf Association of Ontario
universitysport.ca
January 27, 2009
UXBRIDGE, Ont. - Liz Hoffman of Thornhill, Ontario will assume the Presidential role of the Golf Association of Ontario for 2009. Hoffman was named President at the Annual General Meeting of the Members on January 24th, 2009 at Thornhill Golf and Country Club.
For over three decades, Liz Hoffman has been an influential leader in Canadian sport, as an elite athlete, successful coach and widely-respected administrator. Hoffman is currently the University of Toronto's Director of Athletics in the Faculty of Physical Education and Health. During her time as Director of Athletics, since 1994, the Varsity Blues have claimed eight national titles and 90 provincial team championships.
Hoffman has been a driving force behind intercollegiate competition in Canada, including serving a term as President of Canadian Interuniversity Sport from 1995 to 1997 and as President of Ontario University Athletics from 2002 to 2004. She now serves as a member of the Board of Directors of both organizations.
Beyond her leadership in the boardroom, Hoffman's positive energy, encouragement and ability to motivate athletes, employees and sport administrators to reach their full potential is what has made her stand out among her peers.
From the moment she began her studies at U of T, Hoffman was leading the way on the university sports scene. As a Physical Education student, she was involved in two varsity sports, swimming (three years as captain) and field hockey (three undefeated teams), from 1968 to 1971. She was President of the PHE Women's Athletic Association and upon graduating, received the Benson honour award for her outstanding ability in athletics and scholarship.
Hoffman was no less successful in coaching, leading Varsity Blues field hockey to 16 Ontario league titles and eight CIAU championships in 20 seasons. She was named CIAU coach of the year three times and the annual award for the Canadian university women's field hockey player of the year is named in her honour. Hoffman was inducted into the U of T Sports Hall of Fame in 1987.
In golf, she was the Ontario Junior and Quebec Amateur champion. Hoffman was ranked nationally from 1971 to 1976 and was a member of the National Team in 1973 and 1975, participating in the Commonwealth championship. Her other appearances include the United States Amateur and Open championships, the Australian and British Amateur championships and the Canadian amateur and open championships.
Hoffman has served on the GAO Board of Directors for two years and is an invaluable asset to the organization.
The GAO would like to thank 2008 President Steve James for his hard work and dedication to the association. James, a Waterloo resident, served as the GAO's 7th President since amalgamation with the Ontario Ladies' Golf Association (OLGA). Filling the role of 1st Vice-President is John Swift of Smithville while Kathy Pilkey of Claremont will assume 2nd Vice-President duties.
The 2009 GAO Board of Directors consists of:
President: Liz Hoffman, Thornhill
1st Vice President: John Swift, Smithville
2nd Vice President: Kathy Pilkey, Claremont
Director: Marilyn Field-Marsham, Toronto
Director: Jim Furlong, Waterloo
Director: Stu Hamilton, Mississauga
Director: Gilles Hurtubise, Kingston
Director: Bill Muzak, Baden
Director: Ian Murray, Oakville
Director: Bob McMenemy, Sault Ste. Marie
Director: Susan Wickware, Thornhill
Director: Ken Teshima, St. Catharines
Past President: Steve James, Waterloo
About the GAO
The GAO is representative of over 425 member clubs/groups and over 110,000 individual members across Ontario. While promoting the growth and development of amateur golf, the GAO provides core member services such as the Rules of Golf, Handicapping, Course Rating, and Player Development initiatives. The GAO also conducts Provincial Championships, Camps, Clinics and Seminars across the province.
Source:
Claire Welsh Marketing and Communications Coordinator Golf Association of Ontario
And the answer: “Just from the playoff round. The disqualification only applies to the playoff since it is considered a new stipulated round.”
It’s been a busy, productive and enlightening Saturday thus far. I started off with some office work and then quickly transitioned into some snow shovelling, grocery shopping and house work.
During the latter half of the morning I attended a lecture at the University of Waterloo titled “What it does(n’t) mean to be adopted.” A clever title, indeed. And since I came to my family, my parents, via adoption, I was intrigued. I’m glad I attended!
I also heard this morning that a young, budding hockey star, Tina Malone-Wright’s son, scored his first goal of the season this morning! He went to the net and handily picked up a very juicy rebound. Way to go!
In golf news, the Golf Association of Ontario has a new President. Universitysport.ca has reported that Liz Hoffman was named by the GAO on January 24, 2009. You can find the full story here, and also included verbatim below. Ms. Hoffman comes to the role as an accomplished golfer, bearing a highly decorated and extensive resume in sport and sport administration. She takes over from Waterloo resident, and outgoing 2008 President, Steve James. This sounds like great news for the GAO and golf in Ontario!
Liz Hoffman named 2009 President of the Golf Association of Ontario
universitysport.ca
January 27, 2009
UXBRIDGE, Ont. - Liz Hoffman of Thornhill, Ontario will assume the Presidential role of the Golf Association of Ontario for 2009. Hoffman was named President at the Annual General Meeting of the Members on January 24th, 2009 at Thornhill Golf and Country Club.
For over three decades, Liz Hoffman has been an influential leader in Canadian sport, as an elite athlete, successful coach and widely-respected administrator. Hoffman is currently the University of Toronto's Director of Athletics in the Faculty of Physical Education and Health. During her time as Director of Athletics, since 1994, the Varsity Blues have claimed eight national titles and 90 provincial team championships.
Hoffman has been a driving force behind intercollegiate competition in Canada, including serving a term as President of Canadian Interuniversity Sport from 1995 to 1997 and as President of Ontario University Athletics from 2002 to 2004. She now serves as a member of the Board of Directors of both organizations.
Beyond her leadership in the boardroom, Hoffman's positive energy, encouragement and ability to motivate athletes, employees and sport administrators to reach their full potential is what has made her stand out among her peers.
From the moment she began her studies at U of T, Hoffman was leading the way on the university sports scene. As a Physical Education student, she was involved in two varsity sports, swimming (three years as captain) and field hockey (three undefeated teams), from 1968 to 1971. She was President of the PHE Women's Athletic Association and upon graduating, received the Benson honour award for her outstanding ability in athletics and scholarship.
Hoffman was no less successful in coaching, leading Varsity Blues field hockey to 16 Ontario league titles and eight CIAU championships in 20 seasons. She was named CIAU coach of the year three times and the annual award for the Canadian university women's field hockey player of the year is named in her honour. Hoffman was inducted into the U of T Sports Hall of Fame in 1987.
In golf, she was the Ontario Junior and Quebec Amateur champion. Hoffman was ranked nationally from 1971 to 1976 and was a member of the National Team in 1973 and 1975, participating in the Commonwealth championship. Her other appearances include the United States Amateur and Open championships, the Australian and British Amateur championships and the Canadian amateur and open championships.
Hoffman has served on the GAO Board of Directors for two years and is an invaluable asset to the organization.
The GAO would like to thank 2008 President Steve James for his hard work and dedication to the association. James, a Waterloo resident, served as the GAO's 7th President since amalgamation with the Ontario Ladies' Golf Association (OLGA). Filling the role of 1st Vice-President is John Swift of Smithville while Kathy Pilkey of Claremont will assume 2nd Vice-President duties.
The 2009 GAO Board of Directors consists of:
President: Liz Hoffman, Thornhill
1st Vice President: John Swift, Smithville
2nd Vice President: Kathy Pilkey, Claremont
Director: Marilyn Field-Marsham, Toronto
Director: Jim Furlong, Waterloo
Director: Stu Hamilton, Mississauga
Director: Gilles Hurtubise, Kingston
Director: Bill Muzak, Baden
Director: Ian Murray, Oakville
Director: Bob McMenemy, Sault Ste. Marie
Director: Susan Wickware, Thornhill
Director: Ken Teshima, St. Catharines
Past President: Steve James, Waterloo
About the GAO
The GAO is representative of over 425 member clubs/groups and over 110,000 individual members across Ontario. While promoting the growth and development of amateur golf, the GAO provides core member services such as the Rules of Golf, Handicapping, Course Rating, and Player Development initiatives. The GAO also conducts Provincial Championships, Camps, Clinics and Seminars across the province.
Source:
Claire Welsh Marketing and Communications Coordinator Golf Association of Ontario
And the answer: “Just from the playoff round. The disqualification only applies to the playoff since it is considered a new stipulated round.”
Friday, January 30, 2009
5th Annual Cannington Dog Sled Races
Trivia: “What course has the Bank of America Colonial been played on since its inception in 1946?” Answer below.
I took most of last night/evening off. I did do a few house chores, but no business-related work. It felt very strange. I also went to bed fairly early. Also strange.
I’m including a plug here for my hometown of Cannington, ON and their annual 5th Annual Cannington Dog Sled Races and Winter Festival, all taking place in Cannington on February 21 and 22. You can learn more here.
Quoting from their website, “Join us at the Cannington Dog Sled Races & Winter Festival for a fun-filled weekend of pancake breakfasts, ice sculptures and outdoor activities as top teams from across North America take to the field for a fun filled weekend.”
They’re also including a team all the way from frigid Jamaica! Quoting again, “A special welcome this year to a team traveling all the way from Jamaica. Featured in the documentary “Sun Dogs”, the Jamaica Dogsled Team is made up of twelve stray mutts rescued from the streets and shelter of Kingston Jamaica.”
Cannington is located approximately 80 kms north of Oshawa, ON. You can find a map here.
I’ve also decided to pass along an addictive time-waster – only because it’s Friday! You can find a fairly addictive mini-putt game here. Good luck!
I’ll be attending the Leadership Waterloo Region Fire and Ice Gala on Saturday evening. It should be a very special and enjoyable evening! I’m very blessed!
Time to get back to it here at Parmasters KW. Make it a great day!, a great week! (you still have 2.5 days left!), and a have a great weekend!
And the answer: “The Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas”
I took most of last night/evening off. I did do a few house chores, but no business-related work. It felt very strange. I also went to bed fairly early. Also strange.
I’m including a plug here for my hometown of Cannington, ON and their annual 5th Annual Cannington Dog Sled Races and Winter Festival, all taking place in Cannington on February 21 and 22. You can learn more here.
Quoting from their website, “Join us at the Cannington Dog Sled Races & Winter Festival for a fun-filled weekend of pancake breakfasts, ice sculptures and outdoor activities as top teams from across North America take to the field for a fun filled weekend.”
They’re also including a team all the way from frigid Jamaica! Quoting again, “A special welcome this year to a team traveling all the way from Jamaica. Featured in the documentary “Sun Dogs”, the Jamaica Dogsled Team is made up of twelve stray mutts rescued from the streets and shelter of Kingston Jamaica.”
Cannington is located approximately 80 kms north of Oshawa, ON. You can find a map here.
I’ve also decided to pass along an addictive time-waster – only because it’s Friday! You can find a fairly addictive mini-putt game here. Good luck!
I’ll be attending the Leadership Waterloo Region Fire and Ice Gala on Saturday evening. It should be a very special and enjoyable evening! I’m very blessed!
Time to get back to it here at Parmasters KW. Make it a great day!, a great week! (you still have 2.5 days left!), and a have a great weekend!
And the answer: “The Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas”
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Social Networking and Marketing Websites
Trivia: “Since 1970, five players have won seven or more times in one year on the PGA TOUR. Who are they?” Answer below.
I’ve just joined the Leadership Waterloo Region alumni groups on Facebook and LinkedIn. This whole web-interconnectedness, social marketing space has me increasingly intrigued.
These blog entries are propagated, automatically, to my Facebook and LinkedIn pages. There’s heavy mention, of course, of Parmasters KW on both Facebook and LinkedIn. And I’m interested in using both sites to augment real-world-based activities to build connections to the local golf community. We believe that this will lead to increasing opportunities for Parmasters KW.
I worked away at our Temporary Event Center (TEC) at Market Square yesterday. We’ve had quite a few people pop in lately. It comes and goes. And it’s never a steady stream. Market Square is a pretty quiet space. But we are making good use of our little form allowing people to sign-up and receive our email newsletters.
Time to get back at it. I’ll leave you with another of my favourite quotes.
“Until one is committed, there is always hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative and creation, there is one elementary truth, the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help that would never have otherwise occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising to one's favor all manner of unforeseen accidents and meetings and material assistance which no man could have dreamed would come his way. Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.” –Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
And the answer: “Jack Nicklaus (1972, 1973), Johnny Miller (1974), Tom Watson (1980), Tiger Woods (1999, 2000), and Vijay Singh (2004)”
I’ve just joined the Leadership Waterloo Region alumni groups on Facebook and LinkedIn. This whole web-interconnectedness, social marketing space has me increasingly intrigued.
These blog entries are propagated, automatically, to my Facebook and LinkedIn pages. There’s heavy mention, of course, of Parmasters KW on both Facebook and LinkedIn. And I’m interested in using both sites to augment real-world-based activities to build connections to the local golf community. We believe that this will lead to increasing opportunities for Parmasters KW.
I worked away at our Temporary Event Center (TEC) at Market Square yesterday. We’ve had quite a few people pop in lately. It comes and goes. And it’s never a steady stream. Market Square is a pretty quiet space. But we are making good use of our little form allowing people to sign-up and receive our email newsletters.
Time to get back at it. I’ll leave you with another of my favourite quotes.
“Until one is committed, there is always hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative and creation, there is one elementary truth, the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help that would never have otherwise occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising to one's favor all manner of unforeseen accidents and meetings and material assistance which no man could have dreamed would come his way. Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.” –Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
And the answer: “Jack Nicklaus (1972, 1973), Johnny Miller (1974), Tom Watson (1980), Tiger Woods (1999, 2000), and Vijay Singh (2004)”
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Market Square Lottery Booth Caught Up in Company Collapse
Trivia: “True or false: Tiger Woods was nicknamed after his dad, a soldier who fought in Vietnam?” Answer below.
I've had a few short nights lately, and it will clearly catch up to me eventually. But I am managing to maintain my effectiveness, and have some fun, and keep up with the important but non-urgent tasks also. Examples include workouts, writing, business strategizing, etc.
Tonight my youngest son will attend swimming lessons, while his brother toils away at his hockey practice. It will be busy, and wonderful.
In the office today I hope to meet with local golf historian Bill Herron. We'll explore ways we can work together. He owns an incredible collection of golf history.
And we were saddened to see the lottery kiosk here at Market Square closed. Bernie and Marie, the Market Square staff, have been impacted by the difficulties faced by the local lottery kiosk operator. You can find a Waterloo Region Record article here, and also included below. The article included the photo of Bernie Seymour, found herein.
We hope to see the kind husband wife team back on the job soon, but we're not sure that will happen. They were more than willing to make our Parmasters KW literature available on the side of their booth. Literature that I have had to since retrieve.
I've had a few short nights lately, and it will clearly catch up to me eventually. But I am managing to maintain my effectiveness, and have some fun, and keep up with the important but non-urgent tasks also. Examples include workouts, writing, business strategizing, etc.
Tonight my youngest son will attend swimming lessons, while his brother toils away at his hockey practice. It will be busy, and wonderful.
In the office today I hope to meet with local golf historian Bill Herron. We'll explore ways we can work together. He owns an incredible collection of golf history.
And we were saddened to see the lottery kiosk here at Market Square closed. Bernie and Marie, the Market Square staff, have been impacted by the difficulties faced by the local lottery kiosk operator. You can find a Waterloo Region Record article here, and also included below. The article included the photo of Bernie Seymour, found herein.
We hope to see the kind husband wife team back on the job soon, but we're not sure that will happen. They were more than willing to make our Parmasters KW literature available on the side of their booth. Literature that I have had to since retrieve.
Lottery kiosks in local malls close as bankruptcy looms
January 27, 2009
Brian Caldwell
RECORD STAFf
WATERLOO REGION
Five lottery kiosks in Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge have closed along with about 175 others across the country after the company that owns them filed for bankruptcy yesterday.
Infoplace Ticket Centres Ltd. employed about 800 people, mostly at locations in shopping malls in Ontario, and had been in business for more than 30 years.
"The company's operating costs exceeded the revenue they generated from the sale of tickets, so they ran out of money," said Hassan Jaffer, the bankruptcy trustee for Grant Thornton Ltd. in Toronto.
Affected locally are kiosks at Market Square and Fairview Park malls in Kitchener, Conestoga Mall in Waterloo, and in Wal-Mart stores at Fairview Park and the Smart Centre big-box development on Pinebush Road in Cambridge.
The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp., which had a contract with the independent retailer to sell tickets, removed or disabled its terminals after learning Friday that Toronto-based Infoplace was in the process of declaring bankruptcy.
"We regret any inconvenience it is causing for lottery customers," said corporation spokesperson Don Pister. "We encourage them to go to another retailer."
Pister said the closed Infoplace locations make up less than one per cent of the 10,000 retailers selling lottery tickets in the province.
The closures came as a shock to Marie Seymour, 50, who earned $10.50 an hour after working full time at the Market Square kiosk in downtown Kitchener for seven years.
"It was unbelievable," she said. "You know how you feel your job is secure and then it's not?" Also out of work is her husband, Bernie, and another part-time employee at the kiosk. "They just shut us down without any warning," Seymour said. "We're all jobless, don't know what to do with ourselves."
Customers approaching the kiosk yesterday were met with signs telling them it was "temporarily closed." One of them, Elpidio Masutti, 74, had gone there for 20 years. Staff knew his favourite numbers by heart.
"He's here every day like clockwork," said Bernie Seymour, 55. "We know a lot of our customers personally."
Infoplace has associated companies in the United States and the United Kingdom. Kiosks in the U.K. have also recently closed after the chain there ran into financial problems.
Jaffner said it is too early to tell if there is a connection between the two collapses.
The first priority, he said, is securing the Canadian company's assets -- primarily unsold lottery tickets -- gathering information on creditors and getting a list of employees who are still owed pay for their last week of work.
The principals of Infoplace, Ken Clark and Glen Strike, could not be reached for comment yesterday. But Linda Clark, an assistant regional manager, blamed the bankruptcy on factors including the scandal over retailers fraudulently redeeming winning tickets and a decision by the lottery corporation to double the price of popular Lotto 6/49 tickets from $1 to $2 a few years ago.
Clark said Infoplace recently appealed to the lottery corporation for an increase in commissions after more than 30 years at the same rate but was turned down.
Local kiosks also sold about $100,000 a month worth of bus tickets and passes for Grand River Transit.
Eric Gillespie, the transit director, said they were "an important part of our sales network," but stores in the malls where they were located also sell tickets and passes.
A full list of retailers for the transit service is available online at http://www.grt.ca/ or by calling 519-585-7555.
bcaldwell@therecord.com
And the answer: “False. Born Eldrick Woods, the golf champ was actually given the name ‘Tiger’ after his father’s army friend who went by the same nickname.”
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Twenty-five Waterloo Region Sport Movers and Shakers
Trivia: “Who had the first recorded hole-in-one? A) ‘Old’ Tom Morris B) ‘Young’ Tom Morris C) Willie Park D) Allan Robertson” Answer below.
Last week Josh Brown of the Waterloo Region Record published his list of Waterloo Region’s 25 most influential people in sport. There were only two golf mentions: Keith Baulk, who watches over the City of Kitchener’s two golf courses, and Al Kavanagh, the boss at GolfNorth.
We look forward to having Parmasters KW mentioned in next year and beyond!
You can find the article here. It’s also included, verbatim, below.
Power players
Meet the top 25 movers and shakers of the Waterloo Region sports world; they make things happen -- on the home front, across Canada and abroad
January 24, 2009
Josh Brown
RECORD STAFF
There is no shortage of talented sports minds in Waterloo Region. Today, The Record recognizes the Top 25.
They're Waterloo Region's power players in sport. Athletes, coaches, managers, behind-the-scenes folks and movers and shakers. People who have influence and create positive change. People who make a difference because of who they are and what they've accomplished.
About 50 names made our short list. Whittling it down was no easy job. The Record's sports team -- myself, Christine Rivet, Jeff Hicks, sports editor Al Coates and web editor Karlo Berkovich -- debated the merits of each candidate and the ranking order. Disagreements ensued. The conversations were lively and spirited.
To make the cut, finalists had to have clear ties to Waterloo Region. They had to be currently active in sport in some capacity and have legitimate influence in the sporting world. So, founding fathers and former greats were not considered. Neither were dedicated volunteers, which this area has in abundance.
In three cases, families or groups were lumped together because nominating one member did not seem fair to the rest of their clan.
Choosing top spot was the easiest task. After that, it was really challenging. But we feel this year's list is a great representation of the brightest, most active minds in local sport. And we look forward to seeing who might crack this stellar crop in years to come.
1. Jim Balsillie, co-CEO Research In Motion
It's no secret that the Waterloo billionaire has long coveted a National Hockey League team.
He has tried unsuccessfully to buy at least two -- the Pittsburgh Penguins and Nashville Predators. And his name keeps popping up as a potential owner whenever news about a struggling club south of the border rears its head.
Balsillie's love for the game goes back to his childhood. He plays pickup hockey and follows the game closely. His reach goes far beyond that of a rich jock who wants to own an NHL team as a hobby. If, or more likely when, he succeeds, the purchase could mean a new arena for one lucky city in southern Ontario. Whether that's Toronto, Hamilton or Waterloo Region is anyone's guess.
One thing is clear: nobody has shaken up the hockey world more than Balsillie in recent years. His interest in owning a team has ruffled some feathers within the NHL's board of governors, inspired city councils to consider upgrading their facilities and excited hockey fans around the country.
Balsillie likes to win. He's a competitor. So don't expect this saga to end any time soon. And if you think he's got power now, wait until he actually owns a franchise.
2. Lennox Lewis, retired professional boxer
He's Waterloo Region's most famous athlete. Perhaps its most recognizable citizen, too.
And while he has been retired for five years, the former heavyweight champion of the world still packs a big punch in boxing circles.
Witness his efforts -- and those of former NHLer Scott Stevens -- to help boost the profile of the Hanson Avenue Athletics Complex in Kitchener. Lending his name to the new twin ice pad and boxing facility helped secure major funding for the project.
His legacy is so strong that his name continues to prop up a struggling pro boxing market. Talk of his comeback regularly surfaces as the sport still has not found a way to rekindle much excitement in its heavyweight division.
Despite stepping out of the ring, he still maintains a rabid following as evident by his appearance on the reality show The Apprentice, where he proved to be one of the most popular celebrities when contestants mingled with the public.
3. William Thompson, Skate Canada chief executive
The former Kitchener lawyer is head of Skate Canada after a long and distinguished career in the sport.
Thompson, a former teenage figure skater, went on to judge international competitions in his 20s and now runs the show. His duties include running major skating competitions, certifying coaches, developing Canada's top skaters, finding sponsors, securing television deals and delivering the CanSkate program to about 100,000 kids nationwide.
He is a true driving force in the sport and is generally credited with helping Canada get figure skating back to the popularity level it enjoyed during the Kurt Browning/Elvis Stojko era.
4. Steve Bienkowski, chief operating officer, Kitchener Rangers
The Waterloo resident is the brains behind the business side of the Rangers franchise.
There is no arguing the success of the team. On the ice, it's a regular force, save for the odd off-year, such as this one. Either way, the club finds ways to keep interest strong.
In 2007, the Rangers posted a franchise-record $1.057 million profit. Games are well attended, if not sold out, and the Rangers brand could be the strongest in the Ontario Hockey League, or the entire Canadian junior loop for that matter.
Bienkowski served as chair at last year's Memorial Cup and was instrumental in making the event a major success.
5. Barry MacLean, chief executive officer, First Wave Sports Marketing
If you're a professional Canadian soccer player, chances are you're represented by MacLean.
As Canada's first licensed soccer agent, he has worked his way up from a handful of clients to about 75 worldwide. His Waterloo-based First Wave Sports Marketing is growing rapidly and now has a full roster of players.
MacLean's connections are far-reaching and his company is responsible for hosting the Toronto FC public tryouts and luring top clubs -- such as Aston Villa -- to Toronto for friendly soccer matches.
A former player, MacLean coaches Laurier's women's team and is an assistant with the men's side. He has also lent his expertise to national and provincial soccer programs.
6. Steve Spott, Rangers GM and coach
He took over from longtime bench boss Peter DeBoer after last season and is now the main hockey man for Waterloo Region's top sports team.
And his resume isn't thin. He knows the game from his playing days at Colgate University and has spent almost 15 years coaching in the Ontario Hockey League, eight with the Rangers.
Spott is known as a solid recruiter and has played a key role in player development during his time in Kitchener. He has strong contacts throughout the league and has already begun the process of rebuilding the club.
He is on Hockey Canada's radar and helped coach the country's Under-18 team to a gold medal last year.
7. Jonathan Weatherdon, manager of media relations, National Hockey League Players' Association
As spokesperson for the National Hockey League Players' Association, Weatherdon was the union spokesperson during the last lockout.
The Grand River Collegiate graduate joined the association in 2000 and continues to be at the forefront of issues involving policy, suspensions and the collective bargaining agreement.
And while he may not be the head decision-maker, he certainly plays a role on how sensitive information will be released to the public. And in today's NHL, that's no easy task.
8. The Edgars, soccer player, coach
David Edgar is a defender for Newcastle United and one of three Canadians suiting up in the English Premier League. He was captain of Canada's Under-20 World Cup squad and is pegged as part of the future in the backfield for the national team's senior side.
Dad Ed, himself a former United keeper, quietly continues to be a major player on local soccer fields. He's helped countless players gain exposure by showcasing his travel teams abroad. Several of his former players are scattered around the world playing various levels of pro soccer.
9. Dean Boles, swim coach
He has been associated with the Region of Waterloo Swim Club for almost 30 years, first as a swimmer who trained alongside the legendary Victor Davis, and now as head coach.
During his reign, eight ROW swimmers have gone on to compete at the Olympics, including Keith Beavers and Jessica Tuomela, who raced in Beijing this past summer.
Boles also coaches Laurier's swim team and is well connected with Swim Ontario and Swimming Canada.
10. Rob Ducey, baseball scout and coach
The former Toronto Blue Jays outfielder is crafting quite a career on the diamond now that his playing days are over.
Ducey, who grew up in Cambridge, scouts teams affiliated with the American League's Central Division for the Jays and has been consulted regarding the feasibility of a Pacific Rim scouting department for the club.
He has also become a mainstay with the national program, going from the field to the bench, and was the hitting coach for Canada at the Beijing Olympics this past summer. He'll rejoin Canada in a coaching role for the World Baseball Classic in March.
11. Scott Walker, NHL hockey player
Walker is one of a handful of locals suiting up in the NHL. The veteran winger has forged a successful 14-year career with three different teams.
But it's his work within the NHLPA that makes the Cambridge native stand out. As a player rep for the Nashville Predators, he was right in the mix during the 2004-05 NHL lockout, attending meetings and acting as a liaison between the union and his club.
The 35-year-old, now in his third year with the Carolina Hurricanes, remains influential and his views are respected by those in the game.
12. Keith Baulk, director of enterprises, City of Kitchener
He oversees the Aud and Kitchener's other arenas and golf courses.
As director of enterprises, he's involved in landing and operating big sporting events such as the Memorial Cup and the women's hockey Four Nations Cup.
He's currently on a secondment out west, helping Vancouver prepare for the 2010 Winter Olympics. He has been recruited as general manager of the UBC Thunderbird Arena -- the secondary hockey rink for the Games and the host arena for the sledge hockey competition in the Paralympics.
13. Ian McGough, assistant coach, Edmonton Rush
Nobody has their finger on the pulse when it comes to local lacrosse more than McGough.
The Kitchener coach has worked his way up from the grassroots level to the National Lacrosse League, where he currently holds a post as assistant skipper with the Edmonton Rush.
He has had stops with the K-W Braves and at the senior and major level in Ontario, developing countless stars along the way. It's only a matter of time before he's behind the bench as the main man with a NLL franchise.
14. Graham Snyder, hockey ambassador
Anything Snyder attaches his name to seems to end in success -- from his association as a player and general manager with the Elmira Sugar Kings to lending his expertise to Woolwich Township's bid to be the CBC's Hockeyville.
The entire family continues to be great ambassadors of the game as they keep the memory of son Dan alive. Last year, Snyder and wife LuAnn toured all 30 NHL cities to raise money for Elmira's new Dan Snyder Memorial Fund.
After Walter Gretzky, Snyder could be Canada's best-known hockey dad.
15. Scott Cherrey, NHL linesman
The Kitchener resident made the leap from working games in the Ontario and American Hockey Leagues to the big show about a year and a half ago and hasn't looked back.
At just 32 years old, the Drayton native is considered one of the rising stars in officiating. He went from calling Junior D games to the NHL in just five years.
16. John Fitzpatrick, owner Fitzpatrick Motorsports Inc.
A former stock car driver, Fitzpatrick is the most successful team owner on the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series (formerly CASCAR).
His impressive stable includes son J.R. -- the youngest-ever national champion -- and Don Thomson Jr., a multiple national champion. His Ayr-based team is fully equipped with a shop, trailers and several cars.
The successful businessman, who owns Cambridge Rigging among other companies, carries a lot of influence within the racing world nationwide.
17. Roman Hatashita, owner Hatashita International
He hails from one of Canada's most respected judo families and is a former Olympian and national team member.
His Hatashita International includes a martial arts facility and is also a worldwide supplier of mixed-martial-arts equipment.
His clients include the U.S. Army, Canadian Armed Forces, RCMP and the Canada Border Services Agency and his business generates over a million dollars annually.
The Hatashita International, named in honour of his family and held in Canada, is one of the world's largest annual judo tournaments.
18. Kelly VanderBeek, national skier
Raised in Kitchener, VanderBeek cut her teeth at Chicopee before racing on hills around the world. She has been a key part of the recent revival of Canada's ski program, winning two medals at World Cup events since late 2007.
At 26 years old, she's one of Canada's good bets to hit the podium at the Winter Olympics in Vancouver next year.
VanderBeek, along with her women's alpine ski teammates, are active with Right to Play, an international charity that helps kids from disadvantaged areas in the world.
19. Martha Deacon, national mission team member
The Doon Public School principal has become one of Canada's go-to people for international sporting events.
The 50-year-old was named chef de mission for Canada's 2010 Commonwealth Games team in India and was in charge of transportation and logistics for the Canadian Olympic Committee this past summer in Beijing. She has been an apprentice coach at three Commonwealth Games and a mission team member at the 2007 Pan Am Games.
Deacon also carries weight in the badminton world, having been former president of Badminton Canada and a current board member for the Badminton World Federation.
20. The Vanderpools, boxing coaches
They're one of Kitchener's most famous boxing families. The Vanderpools helped put the area on the map in the ring and continue to develop Waterloo Region's reputation as a boxing hotbed by developing and training up-and-coming pugilists.
Though brothers Syd and Fitz are retired, they both wield much respect in boxing circles. Syd runs Vanderpool Training out of Game Day Fitness in Kitchener and has a roster of professional athletes on his client list. Fitz continues to mentor youngsters through his Whip Boxing Academy.
21. Al Kavanagh, president-CEO GolfNorth Properties Inc.
The Conestogo company owns and/or runs 18 golf courses. Most are in the area, but the company's profile is beginning to spread around Ontario, making it one of the big provincial players on the links.
The outfit is financially backed partly by RIM mogul Jim Balsillie, but Kavanagh runs the day-to-day duties. The company recently took over operations at Waterloo's Grey Silo course.
22. Don McCrae, former basketball coach
The longtime local hoops legend was recently named to Canada Basketball's new council of excellence, a nine-person group formed to help guide Canada's men's and women's national programs.
The council is full of heavy-hitters, including NBA guard Steve Nash and Raptors coach Jay Triano.
23. The Pavans, volleyball players, coach
Mom Cindy is a former national volleyball team player, while dad Paul is responsible for developing countless local players through the K-W Predators club program. His Forest Heights Collegiate Trojans are annual threats at the provincial high school level.
But the power of this clan lies in kids Sarah and Becky, perhaps the top sister act on the court in the world.
Sarah currently plays pro volleyball in northern Italy while Becky is on scholarship at the University of Kentucky. Teamed together, they have the power to help get the national women's team back on track, should they wish to go that route.
24. Peter Baxter, athletics director, Wilfrid Laurier University
He's the man at the helm of the sports program at one of Ontario's smallest universities. Laurier has built a strong athletic reputation despite its size and is a regular contender in hockey and football.
Baxter oversees the athletic department and is a key contributor to the national university sports scene. Next month, Baxter will lead Canada's university contingent as chef de mission at the Winter Universiade in China.
25. John Carson, Mercedes-Benz Classic Mile organizer
Five years ago, Carson launched the Cambridge Classic Mile and it's still going strong today. The annual event runs on the outdoor track at Galt Collegiate and pits athletes of all ages in a series of races.
The main events attract some of the top milers in the world, making the meet an increasingly popular draw on the late-summer circuit.
Carson is also the program director at Run For Life, a local non-profit body that encourages fitness through activities such as running.
Ten on the cusp: Ron Dias (college football scout), Gary Jeffries (Wilfrid Laurier football coach), Colin Doyle (professional lacrosse player), Chris Johnson (boxing trainer), Dave Smallwood (junior golf instructor), Peter Brill (GM Waterloo Siskins), Scott Stevens (retired NHL player), Rick Osborne (WLU hockey coach), Kim Kugler (manager at the Aud), Stephen Dietrich (professional lacrosse player and GM of the K-W Kodiaks).
jbrown@therecord.com
And the answer: “B) ‘Young’ Tom Morris, who aced the 145-yard eighth hole at Prestwick at the 1866 British [sic] Open.”
Last week Josh Brown of the Waterloo Region Record published his list of Waterloo Region’s 25 most influential people in sport. There were only two golf mentions: Keith Baulk, who watches over the City of Kitchener’s two golf courses, and Al Kavanagh, the boss at GolfNorth.
We look forward to having Parmasters KW mentioned in next year and beyond!
You can find the article here. It’s also included, verbatim, below.
Power players
Meet the top 25 movers and shakers of the Waterloo Region sports world; they make things happen -- on the home front, across Canada and abroad
January 24, 2009
Josh Brown
RECORD STAFF
There is no shortage of talented sports minds in Waterloo Region. Today, The Record recognizes the Top 25.
They're Waterloo Region's power players in sport. Athletes, coaches, managers, behind-the-scenes folks and movers and shakers. People who have influence and create positive change. People who make a difference because of who they are and what they've accomplished.
About 50 names made our short list. Whittling it down was no easy job. The Record's sports team -- myself, Christine Rivet, Jeff Hicks, sports editor Al Coates and web editor Karlo Berkovich -- debated the merits of each candidate and the ranking order. Disagreements ensued. The conversations were lively and spirited.
To make the cut, finalists had to have clear ties to Waterloo Region. They had to be currently active in sport in some capacity and have legitimate influence in the sporting world. So, founding fathers and former greats were not considered. Neither were dedicated volunteers, which this area has in abundance.
In three cases, families or groups were lumped together because nominating one member did not seem fair to the rest of their clan.
Choosing top spot was the easiest task. After that, it was really challenging. But we feel this year's list is a great representation of the brightest, most active minds in local sport. And we look forward to seeing who might crack this stellar crop in years to come.
1. Jim Balsillie, co-CEO Research In Motion
It's no secret that the Waterloo billionaire has long coveted a National Hockey League team.
He has tried unsuccessfully to buy at least two -- the Pittsburgh Penguins and Nashville Predators. And his name keeps popping up as a potential owner whenever news about a struggling club south of the border rears its head.
Balsillie's love for the game goes back to his childhood. He plays pickup hockey and follows the game closely. His reach goes far beyond that of a rich jock who wants to own an NHL team as a hobby. If, or more likely when, he succeeds, the purchase could mean a new arena for one lucky city in southern Ontario. Whether that's Toronto, Hamilton or Waterloo Region is anyone's guess.
One thing is clear: nobody has shaken up the hockey world more than Balsillie in recent years. His interest in owning a team has ruffled some feathers within the NHL's board of governors, inspired city councils to consider upgrading their facilities and excited hockey fans around the country.
Balsillie likes to win. He's a competitor. So don't expect this saga to end any time soon. And if you think he's got power now, wait until he actually owns a franchise.
2. Lennox Lewis, retired professional boxer
He's Waterloo Region's most famous athlete. Perhaps its most recognizable citizen, too.
And while he has been retired for five years, the former heavyweight champion of the world still packs a big punch in boxing circles.
Witness his efforts -- and those of former NHLer Scott Stevens -- to help boost the profile of the Hanson Avenue Athletics Complex in Kitchener. Lending his name to the new twin ice pad and boxing facility helped secure major funding for the project.
His legacy is so strong that his name continues to prop up a struggling pro boxing market. Talk of his comeback regularly surfaces as the sport still has not found a way to rekindle much excitement in its heavyweight division.
Despite stepping out of the ring, he still maintains a rabid following as evident by his appearance on the reality show The Apprentice, where he proved to be one of the most popular celebrities when contestants mingled with the public.
3. William Thompson, Skate Canada chief executive
The former Kitchener lawyer is head of Skate Canada after a long and distinguished career in the sport.
Thompson, a former teenage figure skater, went on to judge international competitions in his 20s and now runs the show. His duties include running major skating competitions, certifying coaches, developing Canada's top skaters, finding sponsors, securing television deals and delivering the CanSkate program to about 100,000 kids nationwide.
He is a true driving force in the sport and is generally credited with helping Canada get figure skating back to the popularity level it enjoyed during the Kurt Browning/Elvis Stojko era.
4. Steve Bienkowski, chief operating officer, Kitchener Rangers
The Waterloo resident is the brains behind the business side of the Rangers franchise.
There is no arguing the success of the team. On the ice, it's a regular force, save for the odd off-year, such as this one. Either way, the club finds ways to keep interest strong.
In 2007, the Rangers posted a franchise-record $1.057 million profit. Games are well attended, if not sold out, and the Rangers brand could be the strongest in the Ontario Hockey League, or the entire Canadian junior loop for that matter.
Bienkowski served as chair at last year's Memorial Cup and was instrumental in making the event a major success.
5. Barry MacLean, chief executive officer, First Wave Sports Marketing
If you're a professional Canadian soccer player, chances are you're represented by MacLean.
As Canada's first licensed soccer agent, he has worked his way up from a handful of clients to about 75 worldwide. His Waterloo-based First Wave Sports Marketing is growing rapidly and now has a full roster of players.
MacLean's connections are far-reaching and his company is responsible for hosting the Toronto FC public tryouts and luring top clubs -- such as Aston Villa -- to Toronto for friendly soccer matches.
A former player, MacLean coaches Laurier's women's team and is an assistant with the men's side. He has also lent his expertise to national and provincial soccer programs.
6. Steve Spott, Rangers GM and coach
He took over from longtime bench boss Peter DeBoer after last season and is now the main hockey man for Waterloo Region's top sports team.
And his resume isn't thin. He knows the game from his playing days at Colgate University and has spent almost 15 years coaching in the Ontario Hockey League, eight with the Rangers.
Spott is known as a solid recruiter and has played a key role in player development during his time in Kitchener. He has strong contacts throughout the league and has already begun the process of rebuilding the club.
He is on Hockey Canada's radar and helped coach the country's Under-18 team to a gold medal last year.
7. Jonathan Weatherdon, manager of media relations, National Hockey League Players' Association
As spokesperson for the National Hockey League Players' Association, Weatherdon was the union spokesperson during the last lockout.
The Grand River Collegiate graduate joined the association in 2000 and continues to be at the forefront of issues involving policy, suspensions and the collective bargaining agreement.
And while he may not be the head decision-maker, he certainly plays a role on how sensitive information will be released to the public. And in today's NHL, that's no easy task.
8. The Edgars, soccer player, coach
David Edgar is a defender for Newcastle United and one of three Canadians suiting up in the English Premier League. He was captain of Canada's Under-20 World Cup squad and is pegged as part of the future in the backfield for the national team's senior side.
Dad Ed, himself a former United keeper, quietly continues to be a major player on local soccer fields. He's helped countless players gain exposure by showcasing his travel teams abroad. Several of his former players are scattered around the world playing various levels of pro soccer.
9. Dean Boles, swim coach
He has been associated with the Region of Waterloo Swim Club for almost 30 years, first as a swimmer who trained alongside the legendary Victor Davis, and now as head coach.
During his reign, eight ROW swimmers have gone on to compete at the Olympics, including Keith Beavers and Jessica Tuomela, who raced in Beijing this past summer.
Boles also coaches Laurier's swim team and is well connected with Swim Ontario and Swimming Canada.
10. Rob Ducey, baseball scout and coach
The former Toronto Blue Jays outfielder is crafting quite a career on the diamond now that his playing days are over.
Ducey, who grew up in Cambridge, scouts teams affiliated with the American League's Central Division for the Jays and has been consulted regarding the feasibility of a Pacific Rim scouting department for the club.
He has also become a mainstay with the national program, going from the field to the bench, and was the hitting coach for Canada at the Beijing Olympics this past summer. He'll rejoin Canada in a coaching role for the World Baseball Classic in March.
11. Scott Walker, NHL hockey player
Walker is one of a handful of locals suiting up in the NHL. The veteran winger has forged a successful 14-year career with three different teams.
But it's his work within the NHLPA that makes the Cambridge native stand out. As a player rep for the Nashville Predators, he was right in the mix during the 2004-05 NHL lockout, attending meetings and acting as a liaison between the union and his club.
The 35-year-old, now in his third year with the Carolina Hurricanes, remains influential and his views are respected by those in the game.
12. Keith Baulk, director of enterprises, City of Kitchener
He oversees the Aud and Kitchener's other arenas and golf courses.
As director of enterprises, he's involved in landing and operating big sporting events such as the Memorial Cup and the women's hockey Four Nations Cup.
He's currently on a secondment out west, helping Vancouver prepare for the 2010 Winter Olympics. He has been recruited as general manager of the UBC Thunderbird Arena -- the secondary hockey rink for the Games and the host arena for the sledge hockey competition in the Paralympics.
13. Ian McGough, assistant coach, Edmonton Rush
Nobody has their finger on the pulse when it comes to local lacrosse more than McGough.
The Kitchener coach has worked his way up from the grassroots level to the National Lacrosse League, where he currently holds a post as assistant skipper with the Edmonton Rush.
He has had stops with the K-W Braves and at the senior and major level in Ontario, developing countless stars along the way. It's only a matter of time before he's behind the bench as the main man with a NLL franchise.
14. Graham Snyder, hockey ambassador
Anything Snyder attaches his name to seems to end in success -- from his association as a player and general manager with the Elmira Sugar Kings to lending his expertise to Woolwich Township's bid to be the CBC's Hockeyville.
The entire family continues to be great ambassadors of the game as they keep the memory of son Dan alive. Last year, Snyder and wife LuAnn toured all 30 NHL cities to raise money for Elmira's new Dan Snyder Memorial Fund.
After Walter Gretzky, Snyder could be Canada's best-known hockey dad.
15. Scott Cherrey, NHL linesman
The Kitchener resident made the leap from working games in the Ontario and American Hockey Leagues to the big show about a year and a half ago and hasn't looked back.
At just 32 years old, the Drayton native is considered one of the rising stars in officiating. He went from calling Junior D games to the NHL in just five years.
16. John Fitzpatrick, owner Fitzpatrick Motorsports Inc.
A former stock car driver, Fitzpatrick is the most successful team owner on the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series (formerly CASCAR).
His impressive stable includes son J.R. -- the youngest-ever national champion -- and Don Thomson Jr., a multiple national champion. His Ayr-based team is fully equipped with a shop, trailers and several cars.
The successful businessman, who owns Cambridge Rigging among other companies, carries a lot of influence within the racing world nationwide.
17. Roman Hatashita, owner Hatashita International
He hails from one of Canada's most respected judo families and is a former Olympian and national team member.
His Hatashita International includes a martial arts facility and is also a worldwide supplier of mixed-martial-arts equipment.
His clients include the U.S. Army, Canadian Armed Forces, RCMP and the Canada Border Services Agency and his business generates over a million dollars annually.
The Hatashita International, named in honour of his family and held in Canada, is one of the world's largest annual judo tournaments.
18. Kelly VanderBeek, national skier
Raised in Kitchener, VanderBeek cut her teeth at Chicopee before racing on hills around the world. She has been a key part of the recent revival of Canada's ski program, winning two medals at World Cup events since late 2007.
At 26 years old, she's one of Canada's good bets to hit the podium at the Winter Olympics in Vancouver next year.
VanderBeek, along with her women's alpine ski teammates, are active with Right to Play, an international charity that helps kids from disadvantaged areas in the world.
19. Martha Deacon, national mission team member
The Doon Public School principal has become one of Canada's go-to people for international sporting events.
The 50-year-old was named chef de mission for Canada's 2010 Commonwealth Games team in India and was in charge of transportation and logistics for the Canadian Olympic Committee this past summer in Beijing. She has been an apprentice coach at three Commonwealth Games and a mission team member at the 2007 Pan Am Games.
Deacon also carries weight in the badminton world, having been former president of Badminton Canada and a current board member for the Badminton World Federation.
20. The Vanderpools, boxing coaches
They're one of Kitchener's most famous boxing families. The Vanderpools helped put the area on the map in the ring and continue to develop Waterloo Region's reputation as a boxing hotbed by developing and training up-and-coming pugilists.
Though brothers Syd and Fitz are retired, they both wield much respect in boxing circles. Syd runs Vanderpool Training out of Game Day Fitness in Kitchener and has a roster of professional athletes on his client list. Fitz continues to mentor youngsters through his Whip Boxing Academy.
21. Al Kavanagh, president-CEO GolfNorth Properties Inc.
The Conestogo company owns and/or runs 18 golf courses. Most are in the area, but the company's profile is beginning to spread around Ontario, making it one of the big provincial players on the links.
The outfit is financially backed partly by RIM mogul Jim Balsillie, but Kavanagh runs the day-to-day duties. The company recently took over operations at Waterloo's Grey Silo course.
22. Don McCrae, former basketball coach
The longtime local hoops legend was recently named to Canada Basketball's new council of excellence, a nine-person group formed to help guide Canada's men's and women's national programs.
The council is full of heavy-hitters, including NBA guard Steve Nash and Raptors coach Jay Triano.
23. The Pavans, volleyball players, coach
Mom Cindy is a former national volleyball team player, while dad Paul is responsible for developing countless local players through the K-W Predators club program. His Forest Heights Collegiate Trojans are annual threats at the provincial high school level.
But the power of this clan lies in kids Sarah and Becky, perhaps the top sister act on the court in the world.
Sarah currently plays pro volleyball in northern Italy while Becky is on scholarship at the University of Kentucky. Teamed together, they have the power to help get the national women's team back on track, should they wish to go that route.
24. Peter Baxter, athletics director, Wilfrid Laurier University
He's the man at the helm of the sports program at one of Ontario's smallest universities. Laurier has built a strong athletic reputation despite its size and is a regular contender in hockey and football.
Baxter oversees the athletic department and is a key contributor to the national university sports scene. Next month, Baxter will lead Canada's university contingent as chef de mission at the Winter Universiade in China.
25. John Carson, Mercedes-Benz Classic Mile organizer
Five years ago, Carson launched the Cambridge Classic Mile and it's still going strong today. The annual event runs on the outdoor track at Galt Collegiate and pits athletes of all ages in a series of races.
The main events attract some of the top milers in the world, making the meet an increasingly popular draw on the late-summer circuit.
Carson is also the program director at Run For Life, a local non-profit body that encourages fitness through activities such as running.
Ten on the cusp: Ron Dias (college football scout), Gary Jeffries (Wilfrid Laurier football coach), Colin Doyle (professional lacrosse player), Chris Johnson (boxing trainer), Dave Smallwood (junior golf instructor), Peter Brill (GM Waterloo Siskins), Scott Stevens (retired NHL player), Rick Osborne (WLU hockey coach), Kim Kugler (manager at the Aud), Stephen Dietrich (professional lacrosse player and GM of the K-W Kodiaks).
jbrown@therecord.com
And the answer: “B) ‘Young’ Tom Morris, who aced the 145-yard eighth hole at Prestwick at the 1866 British [sic] Open.”
Monday, January 26, 2009
Stumble Upon Some Parmasters KW Website Updates
Trivia: “How many guidelines made up the first Rules of Golf?” Answer below.
It was a busy weekend, as most are. I worked most of Sunday morning, except for a brief run out in the frigid temperatures around my neighbourhood. Sunday afternoon and evening were spent with my two boys, watching movies mostly, doing our best to stay warm.
Saturday evening was rather eventful. Unfortunately, I was witness to a minor automobile collision here in Kitchener. Just a fender bender, but I was almost hit. I was walking at the time. I am to deliver a written statement to police sometime today.
Later on Saturday evening, while my eldest son’s hockey team lost, he did score the team’s only two goals. He’s having a great year, which is wonderful to see.
Today, another cold one, my youngest son is cross-country skiing with his classmates. Hopefully they all stay warm, without breaking into a sweat.
I posted several updates to the Parmasters KW website, predominantly on the main page, our news and media pages, and our advisory board listing.
I also stumbled upon StumbleUpon.com. It’s an interesting tool, and quite helpful, if one is looking to explore the Internet for a specific topic(s).
Well, back at it. This golf training center won’t build itself!
And the answer: “There were 13 rules, many of which are now incorporated into the modern Rules of Golf. The original rules were written for the Edinburgh Silver Club in 1744.”
It was a busy weekend, as most are. I worked most of Sunday morning, except for a brief run out in the frigid temperatures around my neighbourhood. Sunday afternoon and evening were spent with my two boys, watching movies mostly, doing our best to stay warm.
Saturday evening was rather eventful. Unfortunately, I was witness to a minor automobile collision here in Kitchener. Just a fender bender, but I was almost hit. I was walking at the time. I am to deliver a written statement to police sometime today.
Later on Saturday evening, while my eldest son’s hockey team lost, he did score the team’s only two goals. He’s having a great year, which is wonderful to see.
Today, another cold one, my youngest son is cross-country skiing with his classmates. Hopefully they all stay warm, without breaking into a sweat.
I posted several updates to the Parmasters KW website, predominantly on the main page, our news and media pages, and our advisory board listing.
I also stumbled upon StumbleUpon.com. It’s an interesting tool, and quite helpful, if one is looking to explore the Internet for a specific topic(s).
Well, back at it. This golf training center won’t build itself!
And the answer: “There were 13 rules, many of which are now incorporated into the modern Rules of Golf. The original rules were written for the Edinburgh Silver Club in 1744.”
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Right to Play Banned by International Olympic Committee
Trivia: “Which of the following is true about playing from a waste bunker? A) You can ground your club. B) You can remove loose impediments. C) You must rake it entirely after playing from it. D) Both A and B.” Answer below.
Our cause and partner, Right to Play, has traditionally leveraged the Olympic Games as a fantastic platform from which to spread its message. Unfortunately, for reasons not yet known, The Globe and Mail reported on Wednesday that the International Olympic Committee has now banned Right to Play from the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games and all future Olympics. You can find the article here. It is also included below.
At Parmasters KW, and every Parmasters center, we donate one dollar from every paid golf lesson to Right to Play.
We will endeavour to follow this story as it unfolds.
You can see a brief Right to Play video/television commercial here. (WARNING: This video is rather graphic at the beginning.)
Right to Play not welcomed at Olympic Games any more: IOC
JIM MORRIS
The Canadian Press
January 21, 2009 at 5:35 PM EST
The international humanitarian organization Right to Play has been told by the International Olympic Committee it is not welcomed at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games, or future Olympics.
Johann Koss, president and chief executive officer for Right to Play, learned of the IOC's decision in a Dec. 23 letter.
“My understanding of this letter is we cannot be involved in any of the Olympic venues or the Olympic village,” Mr. Koss told The Canadian Press in an interview from Toronto.
The ban will continue for the 2012 Summer Olympics in London and the 2014 Winter Games in Sochi, Russia.
“My understanding, based on this letter, is we are excluded from future Olympics as well,” said Mr. Koss, a four-time Olympic gold medalist in speed skating.
The IOC gave no reason for the ban.
“The letter does not explain why they no longer will work with us,” Mr. Koss said. “It started with a VANOC issue and it has escalated to the IOC.”
An e-mail sent to the IOC was not immediately answered.
Mr. Koss isn't sure if the ban prevents him from entering the village or other Olympic venues in Vancouver.
“Personally, I have no issues if they exclude me or not,” he said. “If that is their decision, I don't really worry about that.
“I do worry that the athletes will not have the opportunity to be exposed to what they can do as role models in this world to create a better world.”
Right to Play uses sport and play programs to improve health, develop life skills and foster peace for children and communities in some of the world's most disadvantaged areas. The group's headquarters is located in Toronto and it works in 23 countries.
The list of athletes supporting the program include swimmers Janet Evans of the U.S. and Ian Thorpe of Australia, German speed skater Anni Friesinger, Swedish skier Anja Paerson and NHL star Alexander Ovechkin.
Canadians include such Olympic medalists as Jennifer Heil, Clara Hughes, Brad Gushue and Adam van Koeverden, plus NHL players like Joe Thornton and Robyn Regehr.
Right to Play began as a group called Olympic Aid at the 1994 Winter Games in Lillehammer, Norway. It has set up in Olympic athlete villages since the 2000 Sydney Games.
In October, the Vancouver Olympic Games Organizing Committee said Right to Play would not be allowed in the 2010 athletes village because its sponsors are not the same as those for the Vancouver Olympics.
Mr. Koss said his organization tried to reach a compromise.
“After the initial discussion with VANOC and the IOC, we did present to them a way where we could work together,” he said. “I did not get a response from that. That was five months ago.
“Since then we had not heard anything before I received this letter.”
The situation has left Mr. Koss disappointed.
“We had such a successful partnership in Beijing in the athletes village,” he said. “When it started with the problems Vancouver was presenting in the fall, I'm not surprised this is the situation now.”
Even with the ban, Right to Play plans on being in Vancouver.
“We will be there and have a presence, just not an official presence with the IOC or with the Olympic organizing committee,” Mr. Koss said.
He doesn't know if not being allowed in the Olympic village will hurt the organization's ability to recruit more athletes.
“I hope not,” Mr. Koss said. “We have a large number of athletes who are supporting Right to Play.
“They are themselves engaged in recruiting other athletes.”
The IOC's website says one of the goals of the Olympic movement is to build a peaceful and better world by educating youth through sport practised without discrimination of any kind.
Mr. Koss hesitated when asked if by banning Right to Play, the IOC was violating its own goals.
“I don't want to comment necessarily on the IOC's decision,” he said. “We have grown out of the Olympic organizing committee and the Olympic movement.
“This is our history and this is where we belong. I don't want to speculate on the issue and the decision made by the IOC.”
And the answer: “D) Both A and B are correct.”
Our cause and partner, Right to Play, has traditionally leveraged the Olympic Games as a fantastic platform from which to spread its message. Unfortunately, for reasons not yet known, The Globe and Mail reported on Wednesday that the International Olympic Committee has now banned Right to Play from the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games and all future Olympics. You can find the article here. It is also included below.
At Parmasters KW, and every Parmasters center, we donate one dollar from every paid golf lesson to Right to Play.
We will endeavour to follow this story as it unfolds.
You can see a brief Right to Play video/television commercial here. (WARNING: This video is rather graphic at the beginning.)
Right to Play not welcomed at Olympic Games any more: IOC
JIM MORRIS
The Canadian Press
January 21, 2009 at 5:35 PM EST
The international humanitarian organization Right to Play has been told by the International Olympic Committee it is not welcomed at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games, or future Olympics.
Johann Koss, president and chief executive officer for Right to Play, learned of the IOC's decision in a Dec. 23 letter.
“My understanding of this letter is we cannot be involved in any of the Olympic venues or the Olympic village,” Mr. Koss told The Canadian Press in an interview from Toronto.
The ban will continue for the 2012 Summer Olympics in London and the 2014 Winter Games in Sochi, Russia.
“My understanding, based on this letter, is we are excluded from future Olympics as well,” said Mr. Koss, a four-time Olympic gold medalist in speed skating.
The IOC gave no reason for the ban.
“The letter does not explain why they no longer will work with us,” Mr. Koss said. “It started with a VANOC issue and it has escalated to the IOC.”
An e-mail sent to the IOC was not immediately answered.
Mr. Koss isn't sure if the ban prevents him from entering the village or other Olympic venues in Vancouver.
“Personally, I have no issues if they exclude me or not,” he said. “If that is their decision, I don't really worry about that.
“I do worry that the athletes will not have the opportunity to be exposed to what they can do as role models in this world to create a better world.”
Right to Play uses sport and play programs to improve health, develop life skills and foster peace for children and communities in some of the world's most disadvantaged areas. The group's headquarters is located in Toronto and it works in 23 countries.
The list of athletes supporting the program include swimmers Janet Evans of the U.S. and Ian Thorpe of Australia, German speed skater Anni Friesinger, Swedish skier Anja Paerson and NHL star Alexander Ovechkin.
Canadians include such Olympic medalists as Jennifer Heil, Clara Hughes, Brad Gushue and Adam van Koeverden, plus NHL players like Joe Thornton and Robyn Regehr.
Right to Play began as a group called Olympic Aid at the 1994 Winter Games in Lillehammer, Norway. It has set up in Olympic athlete villages since the 2000 Sydney Games.
In October, the Vancouver Olympic Games Organizing Committee said Right to Play would not be allowed in the 2010 athletes village because its sponsors are not the same as those for the Vancouver Olympics.
Mr. Koss said his organization tried to reach a compromise.
“After the initial discussion with VANOC and the IOC, we did present to them a way where we could work together,” he said. “I did not get a response from that. That was five months ago.
“Since then we had not heard anything before I received this letter.”
The situation has left Mr. Koss disappointed.
“We had such a successful partnership in Beijing in the athletes village,” he said. “When it started with the problems Vancouver was presenting in the fall, I'm not surprised this is the situation now.”
Even with the ban, Right to Play plans on being in Vancouver.
“We will be there and have a presence, just not an official presence with the IOC or with the Olympic organizing committee,” Mr. Koss said.
He doesn't know if not being allowed in the Olympic village will hurt the organization's ability to recruit more athletes.
“I hope not,” Mr. Koss said. “We have a large number of athletes who are supporting Right to Play.
“They are themselves engaged in recruiting other athletes.”
The IOC's website says one of the goals of the Olympic movement is to build a peaceful and better world by educating youth through sport practised without discrimination of any kind.
Mr. Koss hesitated when asked if by banning Right to Play, the IOC was violating its own goals.
“I don't want to comment necessarily on the IOC's decision,” he said. “We have grown out of the Olympic organizing committee and the Olympic movement.
“This is our history and this is where we belong. I don't want to speculate on the issue and the decision made by the IOC.”
And the answer: “D) Both A and B are correct.”
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