Auburn and Athens Do Not Get Along

2020 will now mark 19 straight Auburn Georgia games attended spanning from age 12 to 31.  If it feels like Auburn never wins in Athens in recent years, that is because it holds true. Auburn has not tasted a victory in Athens in it's last six attempts, dating back to a last minute win in 2005. To be honest, out of those six games , there have not been to many moments where it felt like Auburn was going to pull the game out. Several blowout mixed in there. Georgia simply has Auburn's number right now in Athens.  In a wild and whacky year, the Deep South's Oldest Rivalry will take place in the early days of October, week 2 of the season. Week 2 is usually some kind of non conference tune up for these teams, but not this year. 

Georgia comes in with questions at quarterback after switching quarterbacks in the first half of their season opening win at Arkansas. JT Daniels, the USC transfer, has been medicinally cleared but it remains to be seen what his health status truly is  and impact the former five start recruit may have on the game. Georgia carriers yet again what looks to be an elite defense. Auburn has a rebuilt offensive line, defensive line with new names and numbers running all over the field.  Bo Nix looked solid and matured in his decision making in week one and carries playmakers in the backfilled and at receiver. It's the Deep South's Oldest Rivalry in  week 2 - what in the world.  In a weird year for college football, where there will be less crowd noise and home field advantage in a league that thrives on it, maybe that's what Auburn needs to get a long awaited win in Athens:

2020 Game Prediction:

Auburn 23 Georgia 17

Auburn breaks the 6 game losing streak in Athens

Reflecting on an incredibly inaccurate prediction 10/9/2020

Kiawah Course Review

Like most during these times, we had recently been looking for somewhere to get away. Under normal circumstances, I may not consider a trip to the beach, but we are living in different times. One great thing about the beach is there is usually a golf course near by. 

Tucked off the South Carolina coast just south of Charleston sits the island of Kiawah. A two lane road is the only way on and off  this low country island which stretches only ten miles in diameter. The drive in is a memorable one as the two lane road is lined with overhanging trees shading the road while bringing in the building low country marsh as you approach the island. 

Kiawah is known to most for the Ocean Course. The crown jewel of the island has hosted 1991 Ryder Cup and 2012 PGA Championship along with numerous other tournaments and is set to host the 2021 PGA Championship. If you are looking to play the Ocean Course, make sure to book your lodging through the resort.  Non resort guest greens fees without caddie tip is $480, the cost is significantly less when staying at the resort. 

The Ocean Course, seen here from beyond the 18th fairway, is set to host the 2021 PGA Championship

While I did not play the Ocean Course on this trip, I took in some limited observations on the course and surrounding area. The Ocean Course sits on the far eastern end of the island.  Once you reach the course grounds, you are just about at the end of the island. A two lane road winds you through a gated mostly residential community leading up to the clubhouse.  The clubhouse is by and far the smallest I saw out of three different island courses I went to. Parking is very limited as buses were transporting island guests to the course while we were there. I would imagine hosting a major championship is quite the logistical feat for this island; busing thousands of patrons in from Charleston or other surrounding areas is likely the only option for anyone not staying on the island. With that being said, staying on the island of Kiawah for the week of the PGA Championship in 2021 would be the way to go. 

Regarding the golf itself, I would imagine the average or even the well seasoned golfer is in for a pretty difficult 18 holes.  First and most obvious the wind would be a key factor throughout your day on the course. On the Kiawah website it notes that depending on the day, wind direction and strength, players can experience up to a 8 club difference on a hole. That is wild to think about, going from an eight iron one day to a four iron next day for the same shot.  In addition to wind, tight fairways, water, and a plea-thru of sand increases the difficulty on the famed Ocean Course. From the brief segment of the course I could see, I had even greater appreciation for what Rory did here in 2012, dominating the field by 8 strokes on his way to winning his second major.  I look forward to getting back to the Ocean Course and teeing it up sometime down the road. It has the history and feel of a bucket list course; one that you want to experience with friends vs. joining with a group you don't know.

Looking onto the 18th green of the Ocean Course 

The first course I had a chance to play at Kiawah was Cougar Point. I played the white tees from this Gary Player designed course which carriers a very manageable 6,139 yards. The front nine, known as the marsh side, is a beautiful stretch of golf and really magnifies the low country aspect of the island.  The opening hole a very manageable short par 4 playing 320 yard from the whites. I hit a good drive and was left with inside a 100 yard approach shot; hitting the green and walking away with a two put was a really nice way to start the round. 

This is the view you want when it comes to a  manageable approach shot in golf

A short par 3 and par 5 are next on the scorecard before the course hits what I would consider it's three hole signature stretch.  Hole four is a slight dog leg right and ranks as the number 1 handicap. The fairway narrows some on this hole, but the difficulty that comes into play is in form of a tight green surrounded by deep marsh land on the back and right side of the hole. As you work your way up this hole, some of the most panoramic views of the course come into play. I was really taken back by some of the tranquil beauty of this three hole stretch.

The fifth hole plays fairly straight, but with big trouble all the way along the left side in form of the Kiawah river.  Your approach shot is another tricky one with marsh surrounding three sides of the hole this time around. Keep the ball in the center of the green even with a left pin placement. 

Another approach shot with a do not miss the green scenario, though a more forgiving nature than number 4 green

Hole six provides one of the best views on the course, along with one of the most intimidating tee shots. The signature par 3 on Cougar Point, the tee shot does not play as deceiving as meets the eye. Open space can be found on the right side of this hole, though your target should still be the green center or right center. If you can get through this tough three holes stretch without too many crooked numbers, you will feel pretty good about yourself and the remaining holes in front of you. 

The signature par 3 on Cougar Point one of the best views on the course, just before my tee shot I had a large blue heron cross the marsh in front of me

The remaining three holes on the front nine carries away from the clubhouse and features holes that are suited to score on for good players. After a long difficult par four to start the back 9, a series of manageable holes begins to wind the course back to the clubhouse. The back nine moves away from marsh water landscape and was really nice in it's own right, but I found the hole 4 through 6 as some of the most memorable moments and views from the round.  That may have been because I hit more fairways and greens on the front nine.

A moment of shade on the par 5 11th hole in one of the many Kiawah signature overhanging trees

Cougar Point finishes with a very memorable but difficult  hole with a great view. Your tee shot requires carry over a large body of water. The approach brings a number of factors into play, first being the wind as you begin to move towards the ocean. 

Tee shot on 18 requires carry over water before a tough approach shot to finish your round

Set the difficulty aside, the approach shot on 18 (or third shot in my case) provided for one of the more stunning views of my time on the island. A long green with water on the left showcased by the recently re-built Cougar Point clubhouse. The clubhouse was re-designed and finished about a year ago and is a must see when on Kiawah. Even if your not a golfer, it's also a great spot to grab lunch or dinner and watch golfers finish their round from it's expansive outdoor patio. 

One of the most eye opening views at Kiawah is the Cougar Point clubhouse

After convincing myself I would not play another round of golf on the trip, I teed it up the next day at Osprey Point. Osprey Point sits in the center of the island. Like Cougar Point, there are no ocean-side holes, but it has many natural lagoons and marshes surrounding the fairways and greens. The first two holes open with water running the left side, but very manageable sized fairways should, key word being should, keep you dry to start your round. 

Pristine views do not take long to come into play here as seen from the second hole par 3 

Also similar to Cougar Point, Osprey Point has a par three that requires a significant carry over natural marsh, making for a signature hole and special view to take in early in the round. This course has four very unique par threes, no one built or designed the same. The same could be said for each hole on the  course which was something I appreciated about the way Tom Fazio designed this course.

The next standout hole for me came on number nine. The ninth is a longer par four that plays upwind over a large body of water. The aggressive play is up the left side of the fairway. I went safe, or smart, and played a good drive up the right side which left me with a long approach shot into the wind. 

One of my favorite holes on the course a dog leg left which requires a tee shot up the right side of the fairway, that is, if your playing safe

The start of the back nine begins a three hole stretch along Canvask Pond on the backside of the clubhouse. I will never forget the tenth hole, particularly because of the large gator pond that sits not too far from the tee boxes. This tee shot took an extra level of focus and concentration. I found myself taking a peak to the right while taking a few practice swings to check their proximity. Additionally, the the cart  was sitting a little closer than normal to the tee box. I hit a solid three wood down the pipe and quickly moved on. 

Teeing off on the 10th requires extra focus with added distractions, I was glad not to be walking the course at this point

A series of short par fours and a par five lead to the fifteenth hole which was a rather unique par 3 with one of the largest stretching sand-traps I have ever seen on a par 3. Similar to many holes on the island course, if you can put the hazard or sand out of sight and out of mind, you will be fine. This sand here shouldn't come into play unless your tee shot is well short or errant left or right. Just hit it right down the middle.

Fly the imposing sand-trap on fifteen and your left with a large challenging two tier green

 The closing two holes bring you back up along the pond you start the back  nine against.. As is a common theme in Kiawah, water carries the entire hole on the left side, keep middle right on these holes to avoid trouble. 

A thunderhead builds in the fading light on Osprey Point's 16th hole

If you are looking for a quiet island getaway with plenty of opportunity to play pristine golf courses, look no further than Kiawah. The Ocean Course will draw the golf faithful, but courses like Cougar Point and Osprey Point should be more than considered on a trip to Kiawah, they should be played. Between the two courses I played, Cougar Point had the lasting impression on me, though Osprey Point is a wonderful course in it's own right. Both courses capture the tranquil beauty of the island with vivid low country landscape, marshes, lagoons and a wide range of species from deer, to blue herons, to gators. The courses are challenging, but also provide fairness at the same time. Green speed was a bit slower than expected; all fairways and tee boxes were in excellent condition. The rough would not bury you enough to destroy your hole. The one thing that every golfer can probably agree on about Kiawah, you likely will not get out of a round here without making at least one unintentional golf ball donation to the South Caroline low country. 

Backwards Looking, Forward Thinking

In a time in which we cannot go to concerts, it seemed somewhat fitting to recap some of the concerts I went to in 2019. During this period of time we find ourselves in today, there has certainly been reflection for many people around the world on things that we miss whether that be spending time with friends, sporting events, or going out to dinner. Concerts rank high on that list for me. If I was addressing a concert directly in a letter or in person, I would ask them to return sooner, rather than later. Yet live music tends to draw crowds, often times large crowds in closed in spaces,  which means they will likely be on the back end of things that return, or return to their new normal.  So until that time comes where concert goers can be holding a cold beer listening to an opener anxiously awaiting to see a band they may have seen a few times, or a band for the first time, I reflect on what 2019 brought in form of concert


12. Florence and The Machine, Ameris Bank Amphitheater

This was a sit on the back lawn and relax type of show. I cannot sit here and say I know Florence's or The Machines Deep cuts, but they did throw in their classics throughout the show including 'Shake It Out', 'The Dog Day's of Summer', and 'Hunger'. Enough about their music, because who really knows any of Florence and The Machines songs outside what I have listed.

Florence from a far singing the night away in no doubt one of her many white gowns

Florence came out in a white gown and danced the night away, almost running around stage as if she were a ghostly figure. Her personality was one of the most unique I have seen for a band lead that preforms for outdoor amphitheater crowds. Introverted would be the best way to describe it. You could even say it is must see commentary. There was also a substantial amount of red haired men and women at the show which goes with the territory I suppose.  I  thoroughly enjoyed the days leading up to this show referring to the band incorrectly as Florence and The Washing Machine along with other salty jokes. Not bad music here, but more to reflect on here outside the music itself.


11. Mt. Joy, Variety Playhouse

I heard Mt. Joy as an opener for a concert in the early part of calendar year 2019 and immediately found appeal to the band.  They were so good as an opener, I went back to see them as a headliner later that year. If you are looking for a new band to check out, this folk based rock band from Philadelphia is one to consider.

Mt. Joy puts on a good show start to finish, but a limited selection of music to dates made for a shorter headlining show

Their single 'Astrovan' and 'Silver Lining' probably stick out as the most recognizable songs, but they do not have a bad listen in their portfolio. Fairly new to the scene, they have a album and EP to date, but I expect the band to grow in their popularity in years to come. Put them on your rising band radar list, you heard it here first.


10. The Head and The Heart, Pilgrimage Festival 

The Head and The Heart had been high on my list of bands to see in 2019 and are a fairly recognizable name in the music industry. I missed an opportunity to see them at the Tabernacle in Atlanta on their fall tour, but found another opportunity to see them at Pilgrimage Festival in Tennessee. They put on a good show, but my primary takeaway was the far better experience would be to see them in a great indoor venue like the Tabernacle with excellent acoustics. I suppose I will have to put that on to the 2020, or maybe more likely the 2021 concert list

The Head and The Heart put on a good show, but would be a better experience in a indoor  venue 
than an outdoor festival

9. Adam Sandler, Chastain Park

The only hybrid comedy show/concert to make the list coming in the form of actor/comedian/song writer, Adam Sandler. Rob Schneider opened the night, which was fitting given the movie history between the two. Sandler ended up putting on a pretty amazing three hour comedy and musical show at Chastain Park.  I think everyone can put into perspective that Sandler is a talented individual, but seeing that play out in person really puts the talent into scope. From the musical side of things, Sandler's highlights were his Chris Farley tribute song and closing the show with 'Wagon Wheel'. The only thing missing from the show was a visit to Lunch Lady Land.

8. O.A.R., Atlanta Botanical Gardens

I followed O.A.R. closely in high school and college, but they fell off my radar in my post college years.   In the past two to three years as I have grown old and wise, I found a resurgence in listening to their music. It has been riveting find to dive back in to their old classics and introduce myself to some of their newer material.  They have continued to crank out album year after year and similar to Dave, are known for their long summer tours. I enjoy Dave and have often heard Dave and O.A.R. fall into the same conversation, but I much prefer O.A.R. Must be time to go see Dave.

Skyline views and classic O.A.R. tunes make for a nice summer night in Atlanta

It was hard to pass up on an opportunity to see O.A.R. in a Summer Concert Series at Atlanta Botanical Gardens. The Garden lawn was packed out on a warm summer night to see the New Jersey based band play their classics with a spectacular view of the Atlanta Midtown Skyline.  One cool takeaway from this  show was a purchased signed set list from the band which maybe around $25. It hangs in our living room and provides memories of a music filled Atlanta Summer night.


7. Judah and the Lion, Bon Secours Wellness Arena (Greenville, SC)

I have seen Judah and the Lion on several occasions, so if anything this was more about the travel experience. I've been known to travel to see bands in the past. Tulsa, Boston, why not Greenville now?  We decided to drive up to Greenville, SC on a Sunday afternoon for the soul reason of we had never been to Greenville before; we'd cap off this Sunday with a concert.  Judah always puts on a high energy show and they are one of my favorite bands to see live in concert. Don't let the ranking here deceive you as it's ranking concerts I went to in 2019.  If this listing was based on overall concert/band experiences, they would be right near the top. If someone had never seen any of the bands on this list live, it would probably be between Judah and The Killers who I'd recommend to see first. More to come from The Killers soon.

Judah and The Lion front-man Juah Akers leads the crowd in Greenville, SC

6. Strumbrellas, Terminal West

Little did I know, but there was a lot more to the band The Strumbrellas than their hit song 'Spirits', Now, they are a band I can listen to all of their music from start to finish, and I would say there is no bad song. I rarely ever go to a concert without listening to an array of a bands music ahead of time. As a rule of thumb, I would say I like to know 75% of greater of the bands setlist to really enjoy the show. I came in below my benchmark  for The Strumbrellas  show and still and found myself blown away by their quality of music and overall show experience. The Canadian based six piece Indie Rock band brings funk, energy, and high quality music. They were touring for their most recent album release, Rattlesnake. Give them a listen and check out a few songs; ' I'll Wait',  'Young and Wild', 'Salvation' are a few to get you warmed up.  If you are not hooked on this band right away, plenty of other options out there to choose from. Props to my cousin Mark for getting me on this bandwagon. Make sure you get to a show in the future, if for nothing else getting to hang with Dave for a whole night makes the Strumbrellas concert experience worthwhile.

The Strumbrellas folk rock sound is engaging  and carries a rivertting sound in a live show

Dave, On Keyboards, what more needs to be said (His shirt reads feminism) 

5.Judah and The Lion, 40 Watt Club

There's no photos or videos to share from this concert as phones were taken upon entering the venue, which was pretty nice actually. This was a memorable Thursday night in Athens at a historic venue centered around Judah and the Lion's 2019 album release, Pep Talks. The night started off with commentary from the band and background on what had been going on in their lives that inspired a number of the new songs. Many of the songs were based on seasons of struggle in their lives.  Hearing this perspective before the music itself was special. After commentary on the new album they moved into a portion of the night where they played musical copy of their new album from start to finish via video. They closed the night with a few of their songs acoustically live which seemed  a far cry from their normal high energy show, but was a rather enjoyable change of pace. They called this this tour the Story Tellers Tour and was really a unique way to get a sneak peak and perspective on the album that was to come.  Overall this was  a much better experience than my typical bi-annual fall trip to Athens winch usually ends in an Auburn loss in Sanford Stadium.

4. Rainbow Kitten Surprise, Tabernacle

I was at a music festival a few years ago in Birmingham and remember seeing the band Rainbow Kitten Surprise listed on one of the Saturday stages. As the day went out I noticed the large contingent of people that had made the trek out that day to specifically to see this band. The band name stuck out, how could it not. Following that festival I took it upon myself to check out their music. It turns out their music is just as good if not better than their name. From a live show perspective, it was energetic and colorful. Front man Sam Mellow leads the way. Bald and bearded, his range of musical tones covers the spectrum. Recognizable hits such as 'Cocaine Jesus' and 'Devil Like Me' carried a set which covered their last  few albums. The name will draw you in, the music will keep you coming back.

Color, charisma and a strong fan base following make for a great 'RKS' live show

3. Snow Patrol, Tabernacle 

Going into the Snow Patrol show, expectations were unknown. I like that in a way, raising the question, what is this show going to bring? I had listened to this band for years, but this had been the first time I could recall seeing a Snow Patrol tour. They ended up putting on one of the best shows of 2019 that I saw.  Leadman Gary Lightfoot was engaging, energetic, and charismatic (what more do you want from a lead?).  He was also real. I remember they started a song off note and had to re-start the song. They took it right in stride and had a good laugh along the way.  Their music was engaging and the crowd was into every song from start to finish. Ofcouse the excellent acoustics of The Tabernacle enhances the sound of any band. Stand out songs included 'Crack The Shutters', 'New York', 'Chocolate' and 'Shut Your Eyes'. They also had a nice of mix of songs from their most recent album, Wilderness. Their encore included 'Open Your Eyes' and they closed the night with 'Just Say Yes.' This Scottish based rock band is a hidden gem when it comes to a live show. Get out and see them if given the opportunity.

Snow Patrol lighting up The Tabernacle on a April night in 2019

2. Mar Oberage, City Winery

Marc who? The lead singer of O.A.R, ah yes. Tying back to my earlier comments about O.A.R. coming back into my top list of bands of recent years, I saw that Marc was going to be putting on a solo show at City Winery Atlanta and immediately jumped on this. A show like this with stripped down acoustic guitar and voice shows the true talent of a musician.  Not that there was ever any doubt, but Marc is one talented individual. It felt like a fireside chat in a way. Marc started the night off playing a handful of selected O.A.R. songs. As the night went on to take a handful of requests.  It was intimate and personal, as Marc sat just a few feet away from a smiling Atlanta audience.  Before many of the songs, he provided perspective on what the song meant to him and the band or how and why it was written.  He made note of his appreciation of his fans and noted a few followers who he had seen at prior show or three. This was such a great night in that was a real change of pace from the big band O.A.R. we all know and love and allowed Marc's talent to showcase in an intimate setting.

Marc Oberage played a full two hour acoustical set at City Winery and backed it up with a second show later that night

1. The Killers Pilgrimage Festival

The Killers would be at the top of any list of mine involving a concert. I saw The Killers for the first time in Atlanta back in January 2018. I remember it being a surreal feeling going into that concert given this was a band that I started listening too in high school when their first album Hot Fuss debuted. Expectations were high for that concert and the experience ended up being better than I could have imagined.

 The Killers have continued to put out great music since the time I was 16, to this day. They are lead and bread by lead singer Brandon Flowers. Flowers is Las-Vegas through and through, if you don't know that going into a show, you find it out very quickly. Flowers flashes suits that The King himself would be proud of and brings the strut and energy to the stage that Las Vegas herself would be jealous of.

On this Saturday night, The Killers were the headliner of The Pilgrimage Festival in Nashville, Tennessee. They  are the definition of a headlining band in my book as they have headlined festivals all over the globe for the last several years and are a band everyone should seek out to see live.They kicked off the evening with a tribute to The Cars by opening with 'My Best Friends Girl' in honor of the bands lead singer Ric Ocaseck who had passed away earlier that week. Flowers had the honor of introducing the band into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. I can hear The Cars swaying undertones and influence in Flowers Music.

Brandon Flowers leading a incredible set at Pilgrimage Festal in Nashville

The fifteen song setlist was a tour through all the great years of music The Killers have produced. Classic songs like 'Somebody told Me', 'For Reasons Unknown' and 'While You Were Young' weaved together with a few hits from off there most recent album Wonderful Wonderful.

The show seemed to apex when they entered their final four songs of the evening and brought an extra level of energy when they had the Nashville crowd echoing the chorus of  I've got soul, I'm not a solider in the classic song 'All The Things that I've Done'.  Flowers and his band closed out the night with a two song encore, "Human' and you guessed it 'Mr Brightiside' etching out a electrifying set on a Nashville Saturday night.

Every now and then you get that question 'If you could have a sit down dinner with any three people in history, who would it be? ' I just may have Brandon Flowers at my table.


2020 And On

Over the past few weeks a number of concerts that I had bought tickets for in 2020 have either been cancelled or postponed.

An opportunity to see Dave Matthews for the first time will have to wait until Summer 2021.

A Sunday night festival headline featuring The Strokes will have to wait until the fall.

A trip to Denver for Red Rocks this summer will not be happening.

While this wave of postponements and cancellations was to be expected, it still carriers disappointment.  Taking the time to reflect on what 2019 brought in form of music experiences has provided me with a  even greater appreciation for each show and the overall experience of live music.  It has been great to see the music platform promoted during this time through fundraising for those at need and at home concerts from our favorite musicians. We do not when we will get the experience of live music back in our lives, until that time we reflect back on our experiences and look forward to the day that time comes we can build upon them.

Magic In These Hills

There is a small subset of golf courses in the United States that stand in a league of their own. The first, and most obvious, is Augusta National. The short list of courses that comes behind the hallowed grounds of The Masters would probably encompass  Pebble Beach, Pinehurst No. 2, Bandon Dunes and Whistling Straights. I spent a few minutes looking up best golf courses in the Unites States articles and I found all of these courses on those lists, in variance of orders. The great thing about building a list like this are there are many enticing options to choose from.

Golf courses have memorized me for sometime, more so as I have gotten older and wiser. Anytime I travel I try to use it as an opportunity to play a course in that area. This by no means make me a good golfer. I have a reverent appreciation for the history of the sport, the difficulty by which it takes to be successful, and the elegant almost transfixing beauty that a golf course has.  So when an opportunity came up to visit Pinehurst it sent some immediate chills down my spine.  I knew of Pinehurst from the obvious - past major championships and the unique layout of pine-straw based rough on No 2. Having knowledge of history of a place is one thing, experiencing it first hand is another. When an opportunity is acted upon, it turns into an experience. This turned into one incredible experience which every golf enthusiast should put high on their list.  I believe firmly that you do not have to like golf to love Pinehurst.

So with that being said, what makes this place special?


The History 

The few days I spent on the grounds of Pinehurst  opened my eyes to so much more than my limited base knowledge of the history coming in.  Pinehurst has been host to numerous US Opens and other Championships through the years and is set to host the US Open again in 2024. In fact, Pinehurst has hosted more Championships than any other course in America to date. In 2014 they hosted the Men's and Women's US Championships in consecutive weeks, quite a feat that had never been done before and should probably win some kind of award for the logistic efforts they had to pull off for that. Similar to Augusta National, you can really feel the history just by walking the grounds.  I had a chance to refresh myself on the past Champions during my visit. The stand out year being the epic ending duel in 1999 between Phil Mickelson and the late Payne Stewart. Stewart went on to capture the tournament by holing a 15 foot put on 18.  A short time after the dramatic victory, he tragically passed away in a plane crash. Many look at 1999 at Pinehurst as one of the most memorable US Open finishes in history and Payne's legacy is forever etched in the grounds.

The number of Championship's through the years at Pinehurst really puts into perspective the history of the grounds.

A statue of Payne Stewart and his famous pose after finishing the 18th hole of the 1999 U.S. Open sits outside the Pinehurst Clubhouse.

The Cradle 

Before setting foot on No. 2, I had a chance to play Pinehurst's short par 3 course, known as The Cradle. I was treated to a clear crisp winter morning and a marvelous introduction to Pinehurst.  The Cradle draws its name from Pinehurst being considered the Cradle of American golf. The layout of the 789 yard course would draw similar in taste and flavor to that of No. 2 with many greenside bunkers and the unique rough layout. It goes without saying, if you're hitting out of the rough on a par 3 course, that is a sign of trouble.  Centered next to the clubhouse, driving range and  No. 2, the Cradle should be on your list to play while here. It can be played in under an hour and would be a good experience for any level of golfer. There is also a bar on the 8th hole, which I would imagine turns into quite the roaring good time on warm Summer or Spring days.

The Cradle, symbolizing Pinehurst as the home of American golf 

Morning light breaks through on The Cradle opening up the majestic beauty and layout of Pinehurst

The Allure of No. 2

Playing The Cradle was a great lead up and introduction to Pinehurst No. 2. I tossed and turned the night before the tee time with excitement, unable to sleep. The next morning felt like a special holiday, one not marked on the calendar, but very well should be. Walking up to the first tee, like any round of golf carried a lot of nerves, but on this day there was an extra level of nerves. On this day I was left thinking about the legendary golfers who had made this same walk to the first tee and all the moments that have etched No. 2 as one of the most known courses in the United States.

 My goal was to get off the first tee, which thankfully I did with a decent drive in the fairway. The opening hole is also an interesting in that the fairway is fairly open. Course Architect Donald Ross did not want golfers to get too discouraged after one hole I suppose, though the course will test every level of golfers game as it was intended, most notably, the greens. 

Looking down course on the first hole of Pinehurst No. 2, a Par 4, the wide open fairway was a friendly start that wouldn't last.

The Greens

The Greens on No. 2 were unlike anything I had ever experienced. I have described them to people I have spoken to recently as a pointed tent; if you do not land the ball in the exact right place, there are high odds that your ball will roll back off the green. If you're lucky, your ball will roll back onto the fairway, but on No. 2 there are pretty good odds of playing your next shot out of a bunker. The greens affected every other aspect of how you played the course. In addition to having ultra tight windows in which to land approach shots, you really had to adjust your short game. Pitching and chipping became an arduous task, knowing that if you left shots short on certain slopes you may be back where you started from. Taking an approach to bump and run shots around the green and create a lowered trajectory was the way to go. The greens themselves were incredibly slick. At times, two puts would feel like moral wins. These greens were built for Championship golf. After a few holes, I could see how even the best golfers in the world may run into some issues over the course of a four day tournament, like one John Daly.

One of my better approach shots on the day, look closely and you'll see where my ball landed

The John Daly Hole

As we were walking up the 8th fairway some of the guys I was playing with started recollecting the 1999 Open and how this hole had become famous for a John Daly meltdown; imagine that, a Daly meltdown. I got some of the high level background of the occurrence while we played, and recently read up on what happened to get the full background. As fate would have it, Daly had a great first round of the Open and was only one shot off the lead entering Friday.  On round two, Daly became every amateur golfer to play the sport for a few minutes as he teed off on number 8. After a series of shots and puts that he landed near the hole but rolled back into the rough, he proceeded to hit a ball still rolling down the green in frustration. As Phil Michelson learned fairly recently, hitting the ball while moving is not legal. Daly ended up carding a 11 on the fateful eight hole, taking a two stroke penalty for this act. I suppose somewhat ironically I missed the fairway off the tee and ended up having a dreaded hole. I can relate to Mr. Daly when it comes to the eighth hole on No. 2. and the ensuing frustration that comes with it.

A view of the 8th green from near the ninth tee box, disaster waits

The 'Rough', Sand, and More Sand

There is no rough on Pinehurst No. 2. In 2011 there was a renovation project to remove 35 acres of rough from the course. If you miss the fairway on your tee shot you will find yourself in some form of combination of sand, pine straw, and weeds; more commonly known as a natural area. For the most part, I had decent lies when hitting out of the so called second cut. Playing out of the natural areas presents many variables and often times just depended on the lie, so goes the sport of golf. With all the brush, your ball could end up in some awkward lies making for difficult next shots as one would expect. In addition to the rough sand, there are a significant number of normal green side bunkers, which I was seemingly was in for most of the day. With all the sand, Pinehurst No. 2   carries a unique rule in which you are allowed to ground your club before you swing, contrary to the normal rule where your golf club is not to touch the sand prior to hitting the ball. When you have hosted the most major golf championships in history of the United States, you can alter a rule on your course should you choose.

A perfect imagery on what life looks like if you miss a fairway on No. 2 

Water Hazards?

One of the most interesting things I found about No. 2 is that there was one water hazard on the entire course, pictured below near the 16th tee box. I did not lose a ball the entire round, which is somewhat rare for me. Keeping the ball in the fairway is certainly key to a successful round on No. 2. I can recall playing courses with no water, but cannot remember a course with one, seemingly pretty small, water hazard. I found the lack of water very fitting given the course is built on and designed around the North Carolina sand hills.

No. 2's one water hazard comes off the tee on the 16th hole

A Reason To Come Back

 I've built up No. 2 specifically in my writing, as that was what I had a chance to play. It should not be overlooked that there are seven other courses on the grounds. I guess it just means I will have to go back and play them. Maybe Pinehurst will read this and hire me to come write for them, because they certainly won't hire me for my golf skills.

 Until that time comes, I depart with that famous visual image of the No. 2 flag waving in the wind supported by the white and red checkered flag stick. I now surround that visual image with real memories of these hallowed sand hills and whispering magic of legends past future on the storied grounds that is Pinehurst.

                                              

Relatively Jackson

It's funny looking back at my blog now at the age of thirty. I started this award winning publication when I was in college, pre-employment days, when I had time to write and shoot pictures; sharing passions of  outdoor experiences or dreams, sports I love to follow, analyze, or venture into. Looking back at my old posts, for a few years there, I was really into writing; thinking of creative avenues to put experiences into words and associate outdoor memories on a blank canvas. Now I am lucky if I get two to three posts in per year.

 I thought it would be important time in my life to re-visit and reflect on specific memories, thoughts, lessons learned,  odd occurrences,  and overall reflection of a place that's incredibly important to me. So important in fact, that I chose to get married there. That decision didn't exactly fly, so obviously the wedding was promptly called off, meaning a different venue was chosen. In legal terms, overruled.

I graduated from college in 2011 and the only think I could think about was moving to Jackson Hole, Wyoming. In my mind, nothing would stop me from going. As a senior in college, I remember it consuming my thought process during the last semester of school. I was coming closer to a moment of time to be able to do something that had always been high up on my list. this moment of time, making a dream a reality.

My dream to go to Jackson post college was squarely rooted in a deep desire and love of snow skiing and the outdoors. I think back on Jackson now at thirty years of age, eight years removed from living there, skiing comes to mind, but so many other memories quickly filter in the gaps of the time I have spent when living  there. Some of my experiences I think about every day, some of them I don't like revisiting. Reflection creates an opportunity to ponder on how a specific event or series events impacted not only that point in time, but time moving forward.


Living Vs Visiting

Every-time I had been to Jackson prior to 2011 had been for a vacation, with my family. Always a a nice place to stay, good meals, long ski days; the way a ski vacation should be. I quickly found that living in a place is much different than visiting. Making a living off a small income, eating cereal for dinner all quickly part of the norm. I lived in a small one bedroom apartment which was all that I needed for my time there, tight quarters. It was a swift adjust period and something I think about often now when I go back to visit. Day to day life quickly developed a much different feel than vacation life and was something that I had to learn adapted too quickly. I would love to live in Jackson one day again,  when I go back and visit it's always interesting to draw back on the comparative aspects of living versus visiting.

Finding, People

When I moved to Jackson Hole, I knew one person through a family connection. He was a good bit older than me and worked full time, so we were in different phases in life. Until I started working for the resort in November, I really did not know anyone else. I found my time in Jackson being spent exploring, hiking, traveling, attempting to fly fish, and a lot of reading during October and November. I remember a lot of days I would be out and active, but may not even talk to another person or have human interaction. I think I enjoyed it some, but also was a time where I was lonely in some aspects of life. I guess in the back of my mind, I hadn't even thought about the fact that meeting people in a completely new town across the country would take time, simply overshadowed by why I was there, to ski. I am incredibly thankful for my parents who were extremely supportive in the transition that came with this move and time it took to get to know some people.  My Dad drove out with me to Jackson, and then flew home. Both my mom and dad came out through the year on several occasions to visit. I had to work on Christmas day, my Dad came out and spent the holiday with me. To this day the transition to Jackson, believe it or not, remains something I look back as an area that was in many aspects a struggle, but also taught me a lot about growing up and the realistic aspects that come with a solo move across the country.

Trying to find my way along the Snake River

Being Frozen

Many days during December and January were frigidly cold, sub zero temperatures in the early part of the morning was the norm. I would wait for the start bus in the town of Jackson and my hair would still be wet from a shower that morning. By the time I got on the bus, a large portion of my hair would be transformed into ice cycles. Cold December days translated on the ski hill as well. I remember one day in December  it was so bitterly cold there was hardly anyone out of the mountain. The person I was skiing with at the time looked over at my face and commented that I was starting to de colorize in several areas. With that, I knew it was probably time to take it off the mountain. Again, going back to the living vs. visiting, I hadn't skied in Jackson in December prior to living here, so the extremely cold temperatures during this period was new for me, but I also do not mid the cold, to a certain extent.

The Changing Seasons, Fall, And that Season No one goes to Jackson For

Nothing can beat winter in Jackson, but I found fall to quickly be one season I would always want to come back for. Fall is a short lived time of year in the mountains, with the turning leaves and some clear crisp days before the late September 'rainy' season starts. October and November likely get the least amount of tourists, and for good reason. I would call it a in between season, the temperatures starting working there way down and there are lots of days of rain. So make sure you get to Jackson for that brief fall window, because it's magical season, and then come back when the lifts start spinning.

One of my favorite shots of the Tetons from my Fall in Jackson

The Tetons fully transitioned from fall to winter

You Can Never Be Over-prepared

This is one of the most important key takeaways from my time in Jackson. I departed on a hike in Jackson during the September time frame. It was a full day hike that took us from the base of the mountain to the back-country. The morning started warm and pleasant and I dressed accordingly. After reaching our hike destination the weather begin to deteriorate, and quickly. The clear skies turned to rain and the temperature begin to drop significantly. We found ourselves hiking back in temperatures not far above freezing with a consistent sleeting rain falling.  I had not packed enough layers for this weather, or even a jacket shell for the rain. I found myself completely unprepared in a uncomfortable position for the remainder of the hike. Concerns over frostbite and body heat became more and more of a concern as we continued. Thankfully, we made our return safely back into the town of Jackson. I had lost feeling in several areas of my hands that did not fully return until a few weeks later. Ever since that hike, I run a full thorough evaluation of what is needed or could be needed for a day in the mountains. When hiking in the mountains, always have layers, a jacket that can handle changing conditions, and more water than you think you may need. A good question to ask before heading out on a bike hike or into the back-country, no matter what time of year,  if I had to spend the night outside, would I be prepared?

Marion Lake, 14 miles round trip, clearly, my humbling lesson learned hike

Choosing Your Ski Days


I got spoiled, quick. I figured I'd ski every day and every minute I could when I was living in Jackson. I found this to work out differently than I anticipate going in. When you live in Jackson, barring work, you could pick and choose your days. Save your knees, your legs, and your body for a big snow storm. Skiing solo versus with friends or family carriers a much different feel. If I had to go back and do it again, there was some days where I stayed in where I probably could have gone out. My season cut short by injury, but thankfully it was filled with close to 80 ski days or so (need to go back and verify), a handful of which were of the rather sweet powder variety. The ones I had dreamed about prior to the move and solidified the Jackson Hole ski dream of living there.

Solo ski days became a norm during my time in Jackson

Endless Hiking 

While my time skiing was incredible in Jackson for 2011 and 2012, the two month period I got in August in September to hike and explore Jackson and the Tetons was almost just as memorable. There is no such thing as a bad hike in Jackson. I went back and pulled a few picture from some of my favorite hikes from Fall 2011:

Stunning views from Phelps lake, a hike that was quickly gaining popularity in GTNP whit the building Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve.  

Rock Springs Loop, a popular back-country  ski area in the winter, turns into a nice hike off the Tram in the summer. 

Surprise Lake sits just below the Tetons

Taggart Lake

Ending The Season and Beginning a New One 

My ski season ended earlier than it should have. It also happened to end on a blue bird powder day which was rather unfortunate. Thankfully it was towards the end of February and not the start of the season.  I had gotten to the mountain early ready to roll, skiing with a friend from the ticket office. We decided to take the Gondola to start the day, which takes you to around the mid point on the mountain. Our Goal was to get to the Headwall, which is about a 20 minute in bounds hike that can be accessed from the Supreme lift. There is also a secondary access hike from behind the Gondola, this hike to the top is known locally as 'white spider' or the 'elevator shaft'. It lives up to it's name , as much of the hike is straight up.

As we got into the first section of the hike, I found myself loosing my footing in the steep boot-pack on several occasions. One final slip and I found myself sliding back down the mountain at a fairly quick rate, I remember distinctly so much fear entering my body at that point in time. My right leg caught behind a tree with my body downhill. I was somehow able to readjust but found that my right knee cap came out of place in the process. For some reason, I thought I could keep hiking only to find my knee to keep coming out of place. I made the decision to put my skis on and head to the top of the Gondola. I rode the gondola down went to the doctor at the base of the mountain and was diagnosed with a torn ACL. They sent me to the hospital after that for further diagnosis and it was determined it was a torn meniscus and not a ACL tear.

That day, for the most part, ended my ski season. I would ski a day or two more gingerly to close the season and then move back to Birmingham where I had surgery. To this day, I know God had a hedge of protection over me that morning. I was sliding down a mountain, helpless without a helmet on. I could have broken my neck, my back, but instead I now have less cartilage in my knee. It was a humbling, incredibly difficult experience. It was on of the highest levels of fear and pain I have ever experienced, but I look back at it now eight years later with a sense of praise and thanks.

One of the closing days at the mountains ski season was a Easter sunrise service at the top of the Tram. It was a fitting end to close this chapter of my life, and move on to the next one. I am so thankful for everything  Jackson has taught me and meant to me through the years. It's always going to be a place I seek when it comes to a life transition or just a life experience in general. I do not know any other place I would rather be and treasure every minute of time I am fortunate enough to spend there.

 In 2011 I moved away from Jackson to start my career in Atlanta. In 2019, I took in a week long experience in Jackson that signifies a incredibly important next step in my life and one I couldn't be happier or more blessed to have coming up, marriage.

Easter Sunrise in Jackson Hole Wyoming 2011

Scotland Thirteen Ways Sideways

Scotland is unlike any place I have ever been. It's hard to depict in words the unprecedented magical beauty and mystery of the Northern Scottish Highlands or the unparalleled history of the St. Andrews Old Course. Given the incredible vastness and the unique nature of this country, I needed to put some visual structure and written words around high moments of a week. Thirteen is random number, and we picked a random place to go:

13. Edinburgh

Scotland's Capital city, also its largest, Edinburgh is a city certainly worth a stop. Your first glimpse at all the Scotland lures you have always heard about: castles, bag pipes, and haggis. Edinburgh is a city,  and it falls the highest (or lowest) on my list given all of the non city opportunities to be found in the Northern part of the country.

Wind your way up one of Edinburgh's more renown streets, Victoria Street. 

Clearly how this guy woke up in the morning. 

Edinburgh Castle lies in the center of the city. 

The Fringe Festival fills the Edinburgh streets for almost a full month of August. One of the largest arts festivals in Europe consisting of comedians, street performers and various other shows all throughout the city. 

12. Locks upon Lochs

One of the most astounding things you will find in Scotland is the number of lakes, or as the Scots call them, lochs. It's estimated that there are over 31,000 fresh water lochs in Scotland. We had to pass by, over, or around a few hundred lochs during our time traveling the country. Each loch brought something a little bit different, with the constant moving clouds coupled with rolling hills and mountains creating spectacular imagery.

The first of many lochs we saw, Loch Lubnaig.

Loch Leven which runs through Glencoe

Loch Lochy, North of Fort William, feels like a shot from a tropical island.

A loch on the winding drive into Isle Of Skye.

11. Backwards Driving and Small Roads

Not something that I would recommend per say, but something to take into factor if you choose to travel the country via rental car in the U.K. Driving in a backwards car threw me off to say the least, not to mention the one track roads make up a large portion of the driving in the Northern part of the country. We talked to a retired couple for awhile when they were passing through Portree on a day bus tour. I was slightly jealous of their retirement and not driving, but the flip side of the coin is you have total flexibility of what you can do and see when your behind the wheel. I'm sure the Scots consider our cars and roads backwards as well.

One track backwards driving on the Isle of Skye. 

A snapshot of our driving route through Scotland, covering a significant portion of the country. 

10. Pints of Ale 

I was thoroughly impressed with the high quality of beer found throughout Scotland. So much so that I found myself taking quick  photos of local drafts and trying to write down the names. In a nutshell, I didn't want to go back to the beer I drink back in the states. Not to mention drinking pints is just the way to go all around. The home of scotch is also home to some fine beer.

Loch Leven Ale in Glencoe, Scotland

Cold Town Beer, brewed locally in St. Andrews, Scotland

Isle of Skye Al, in you guessed it, Isle of Skye, Scotland

9. The Fairy Pools

Our first hike in Scotland came in the Portree area know as The Fairy Pools which run from The River Brittle. The hike starts with a running stream that tuns into numerous colorful pools of water that lead to the base of a mountain peak. For the brave of heart, you'll find what you would assume are locals taking a dip in the chilly water and joining the Scotland Polar Bear Club. A warm summer day in Scotland might be in the 70's. The Fairy Pools is worth the stop if  you make the trek out to the Isle of Skye. 

The Fairy Pools Hike Follows a stream up switch backs to the base The Cullin Range. 

One of the many crystal blue pools

8. Ullapool Plus Bag Pipes

One of the best moments from the trip came in Ullapool, Scotland (The American way to pronounce this is You La Pool). A spontaneous move instead of spending a evening in Inverness, the home of Nessy (big tourist trap, or is Nessy real?) Ullapool was worth the hours of mountainous, windy, rutted out, one track rough roads and proved to be a well made last minute decision. Ullapool is a small fishing town with one or two hotels, a bar, along with a single restaurant for dinner.  It was a nice break from some of the busier areas we spent time and a bag piping band circling the town around dusk was something to top the list. 

The sleepy fishing town of Ullapool, Scotland. 

7. Catching  up on your James Bond

Several James Bond movies have been filmed throughout Scotland. Notably the Unnamed Road from SkyFall and one of Scotland's more famous sought after Castles, Eilean Donan, made for memorable views. 

The River Etive in Glen Etive

Unnamed Road in Glen Etive Scottish Highlands,  where scenes from SkyFall were filmed.

The renown Elien Donan Castle on the drive into Portree appears in The World is Not Enough. 

Scotland takes pride in their long running ties to James Bond films. 

6. An Opportunity to play Links Golf at The Home of Golf 

When in Scotland, you have to play golf, or at least that's the way I felt. After all, it is the home of golf. Scotland is known for it's link style of golf;; narrow fairways, long fast greens and sand bunkers that make you disappear from view. While I was not able to get on at the St. Andrews Courses, I did have the opportunity to play a course in the St. Andrews area, The Torrance course at The Fairmont. A true links style course, the Torrance course proved challenging and provided spectacular views overlooking the surrounding St. Andrews area. 

Links Golf, miss the Fairway and be prepared for a tough second or dropping three. 

Such a nice lie. 

The town of St. Andrews in the distance.

The sun setting on a ideal weather day in St. Andrews. In a country where the weather is variably unpredictable, fortunate to have a beautiful sunny day. 

5. The Old Course at St. Andrews

Considered the oldest golf course in the world, The Old Course at St. Andrews is at the top of every golfers bucket list.  Outside of the incredible aspect of being able to simply visit and walk the course, I took away some new findings that I would have never known without a visit to the hallowed grounds:

The first tee on the Old Course runs parallel to the 18th hole. Roads and pedestrian walking paths line both sides, along with crowds of people. No pressure coming off the first tee or anything. 

On Sunday's, the St. Andrews Old Course closes and turns into a 18 hole public park. The other six courses within the St. Andrews name remain open. Would have never expected it, but fully appreciate it.  I also think back on it and am amazed that The Old Course is a public park on Sunday's.

Founding in 1867, The St. Andrews Ladies Putting Club is a little easier to get on than the Old Course and less expensive at only a pound per putter. Imagine put put, except your next to one of the most famous courses in the world.

The famous Swilken Bridge, which takes you over and across the only water on the course and leads up the 18th fairway. A few well known golfers have crossed this bridge at some point of time or another. 

The Old Course is just one of seven Courses that are a part of St. Andrews Links. 

One thing that I had never noticed on television through the years is that a road passes directly through 1 and 18. This blew my mind a little bit.  Okay maybe more than a little bit. Between groups, they open the road for cars to drive through. Maybe where they got the idea for the famous Happy Gilmore Volkswagen scene. 

The St. Andrews Hotel follows the fairway of 17, known as the Road Hole. Your tee shot is blind and carries over a building.

As someone who has hit my fair share of errant golf shots through the years, I had so much appreciation for this warning sign which is found in the St. Andrews Hotel on the 17th Road Hole. 

4. The Fishing Upon Fishing Opportunities 

With lochs upon lochs, comes fishing opportunities. It didn't hit me until right before we left for this trip that Scotland would have copious fishing opportunities. While we were a little late to the party to land a salmon fishing trip, we landed upon a gold mine of a fishing opportunity just north of Ullapol and were able to get with a local guide for half a day of trout fishing. We parked at our guides house and walked into his backyard for an afternoon of exploration and local Browns.

3. The Scottish Highlands Weather

Four seasons in a day, a good way to describe weather in Scotland. I was constantly amazed how often the weather changes. One minute sunny and warm, the next pouring rain and the temperature dropping by the second. Two minutes later a storm would clear and your wondering what is next. The clouds were simply indescribable regarding how often they would change. I cannot find all the right words to serve this topic justice.

An approaching storm on the Isle of Skye. Weather can change from one season to the next in a mater of minutes. 

2. The Isle Of Skye

Skye is simply a incredible place, and one of the most sought after ones in Scotland for a reason. The scenery itself stands so far out of reach of perspective from any other place I have ever seen.  Majestic - Awe Inspiring - Unforgettable. Sometimes you just let the pictures  and my incredibly off hand sometimes long captions tell the story. 

The Isle of Skye is about 50 miles in length. The high points of the Northern part of the Island can be done in a half to full day, depending on how deep you want to explore. The more time, the better. 

2 lanes? No way. 

'Kilt Rock'

Coastline Views in Sky

Sheep are found through the Highlands and prevalent on Sky. 

Switch pace to the town of Uig on the NW side of the island, which almost carried a Caribbean Island feel to it. 

1. The Old Man Of Storr

Encompassed within Sky, The Highlight of the island, and maybe of Scotland as a whole, The Old Man of Storr. This unique rock formation stands as a  high point of fantastic rugged landscape with a great view of the island, if you happen to catch a clear moment.  This comes in as the best moment of a unforgettable week in the Scottish Highlands.

Clear hill path with rocky streams lines round out the two hour round trip hike. 

                                           

Great shot of a brief moment of sunshine in the ever changing Isle of Skye weather.

Dramatic post card esc landscape

Backside views of the Isle of Skye from the top of the hike

One of my favorite pictures of the trip. The fish eye lens captures an incredible rock structure of Storr and the seas below. 

Below the Storr

And since I'm here writting and it has no releveance to anything above, I am going  to spell out all of the European/Scotland cultural and etiquette quirks I picked up on. These are directed at no one in particular.

• Bathrooms are few and far between. Do the Scots not drink water? 
• Not many exits or places to stop at all. Why don't you have anywhere to stop outside of towns, nothing? 
• No water at the table, eh?
• I appreciate the delivered total cost, of meals, hotels, etc.  I wish that would be adopted more places. Don't need three lines of taxes.
• I also appreciate that you trust me to fill up on gas and then pay