Monday, August 4, 2008

Practice round #1- Oh My!

So much to talk about, WOW! Ok, so reality check here people because this is a Major. Of course you will see the likes of Angel Cabrerra (U.S. Open winner 2006), Adam Scott, Camillo Villegas etc...all on the range. On the course I got to see others like John Daly (yes, he's that large but no cigarette?), Charles Howell III, Woody Austin a.k.a. Aquaman and so on. I wasn't concerned with the fact I played a practice round with Tommy Armour III (remember him from the airport?) and Pat Perez. I wasn't in awe of the name plate on the range behind me to let the thousands of spectators know who was the guy (very well dressed I might add) hitting those squirters off to the right and left. No, see the reason I was a touch skiddish was the tens of thousands already there to watch a Monday practice round! That's right "tens". Bleachers full, fairways lined and tees surrounded by autograph seekers of all ages!!! I can't stress to you how many signatures I signed on caps, golf balls (very tough to sign), flags with the Oakland Hills logo, tee shirts, badges, magazines and the list goes on. Kids were not the only ones seeking as adults routinely jammed their way in. I began suspecting an E-Bay moment here with some of the adults but I'll let that go.
I won't bore you with details of practice round only to say the back didn't hold up too well from carrying all those bags in and around airports. That coupled with the stress to hit a practice ball in front of all those people made for an interesting round. My approach shots to the greens were outstanding... when I hit the fairways. The rough is deep and requires LOTS of club head speed to extricate. Best advice given was from Tommy Armour III, "don't hit practice balls 'til your hands bleed just have a great time. Hit twenty balls after the round, take her to a movie, walk around the mall and have a coffee." He knows.
Kenny Perry and Corey Pavin had an interesting exchange in the locker room concerning the rough and length of the course so I'm not alone...
Things are beginning to speed up around here as the first day is now over. Can't wait 'til tomorrow. Please let me know if this is too much info. Just trying to tell all!

9 comments:

The Waz said...

Hey Pro!! No, the blog wasn't too long at all. Very informative and entertaining. Enjoy being at "the show" and keep the words flowing. Can't wait to read about tomorrow. We're proud of you Dave. First round of Brugal at CdC in January is on me! Oh wait, it's all inclusive. Play well!!!

lisatee said...

Famous Dave, The blog is great and want to hear all; it's the way we're with you at Oakland Hills. Looking forward to tomorrow's report. Definitely heed TA3's advice. (Does he smile? hehehe.) Play well and have lots of fun! Lisa and Scott

Michael said...

Keep writing! Never enough. Use the fairway metal if you have to. Sounds like you are really enjoying it. Even with Tommy Armour 111. Invite him to the club!

DCKalenaks said...

Too much? Its great Longie, we are loving it. Please keep it up and good luck. Next major you need to bring someone to carry your bags for you!

Chuck said...

Pro, I can see a bright future at the Golf Channel with your indepth detail and informative descriptions on the week at Oakland Hills. By the way can you let Tommy A know that you aren't here to watch you are here to win!! Enjoy, I know we are just thinking about your week.

Anonymous said...

cant wait to see you play, big D!
mom says we have to wear our nice golf clothing to make sure people know we're with you! love, chels

Lori said...

Posts aren't too long at all! Keep 'em coming. Did you tell Len you're doing this? Maybe he'll write about it and all of DC will be reading!

Keith said...

Way not too long! I don't even know you and am anxious to read the next posting. Texas is still rooting and reading. So keeping putting and posting.

tommie said...

karma coming at you all week from all the boys on the nationwide tour truck! we will be watching and keeping up with your progress. hope you show up at the first tee on thursday with your caddie sporting your nationwide tour bib!