Golf’s Quirkiest Courses Captured in New Book

Remarkable Golf Courses encompasses the extremes of the sport – from the highest golf course in La Paz, Bolivia, to the lowest, in Death Valley, USA; from the most northerly in the Arctic Circle to the most southerly in Tierra del Fuego.

First published in 2017, but updated with new entries for 2025, Remarkable Golf Courses, which was written by sportswriter Iain Spragg, brings together some astonishing stories with some extraordinary photography.

The many quirks of the golfing world are covered in the 224 pages, such as the 18th green the other side of the River Lea which is serviced by an electric ferry at Brocket Hall, or the Los Angeles golf course that has its own funicular railway, or the floating green in Idaho, where it’s not just the pin position that’s changed every day, it’s the distance from the shore.

Golf courses that feature neolithic standing stones (Scotland), Roman roads (England), and ruined medieval castles (Wales) take their place alongside the old temples of Delhi or a UNESCO World Heritage bridge that is used to link the 9th and 10th at Angkor Wat.

There are the beloved classic courses of St Andrews, Carnoustie, Royal St Georges and Westward Ho!. There are spectacular golf courses hewn out of the Nevada and Arizona desert, green oases in a cactus-strewn, rocky landscape, along with Hawaiian courses fringed by barren black lava flows. But nothing can beat the thrill in Guatemala of lining up your drive on an active volcano at the Fuego Maya course.

In comparison there are the traditional wind-blown Scottish links, such as The Machrie on the island of Islay, which has the most blind greens on any course, or the remote Isle of Barra where greens are only accessible via a kissing gate. Fancy swapping countries mid-round? You can at the Llanmymynech club in Wales. At the fourth hole golfers tee off in Wales and putt out on the green in England. 

Remarkable Golf Courses is being published on October 23 and can be ordered from harpercollins.com.

Operationally Speaking: An Event Operations Guide Now Available

Event Managers Empowered with Expert Insights

Frank K. Bussey has released the fully updated 2025 edition of Operationally Speaking: An Event Operations Guide, the #1 field guide to event operations. This essential manual (342 pages) is now available in hardcover, paperback, and audiobook formats.

Operationally Speaking is the trusted resource for anyone managing complex events, from golf championships to community festivals. Built on Bussey’s 40-plus years of experience, including running operations for the U.S. Open Championship and World Cup Polo, this book delivers up-to-date strategies, modern solutions, and real-world wisdom.

Bussey has spent a lifetime behind the scenes of some of the most complex and demanding sporting events. Known for his calm leadership and deep operational knowledge, he has built lasting relationships across the industry — with vendors, volunteers, and venue partners alike. His reputation for getting the job done, no matter the obstacles, has made him a go-to expert in the world of event logistics and site management.

"Planning a high-stakes event and feeling the pressure? Want a proven framework for setup, execution, and breakdown—without the guesswork? You’re in the right place," Bussey says. "This all-new 2025 edition is designed to help event managers stay ahead of the curve in today’s high demand, quickly changing world."

The previous version was used as curriculum for a college-level class at Farmingdale State College (N.Y.) and the new edition is even more powerful, with additional insights Bussey has gleaned over the years.

The book has already received praise from early reviewers, who have lauded its comprehensive approach and practical insights.

“Frank was instrumental in the success of three U.S. Opens while I was CEO of Pebble Beach,” said William Perocchi, Co-Chairman, Pebble Beach Company. “He worked closely with our team in developing the site plan and executing our strategy to perfection.

“We would never have achieved the success that we did without Frank's leadership and creative thinking. This operational manual is a vital tool for anyone involved in staging and running a major sporting event,” Perocchi continued. “I highly recommend it.”

Operationally Speaking is available for purchase on Amazon.com.

Charlie Mechem's New Book, Arnie and Jack, is Now Available to Greengrass Accounts

PGA West, Walt Disney World Golf, Muirfield Villages and The Tradition are among the courses that tout successes with selling the book in their pro shops.

(SAN DIEGO, CA) – Charlie Mechem’s latest book, Arnie and Jack: Stories of My Long Friendship with Two Remarkable Men, is now available to green grass accounts. 

“I’m thrilled that I have received a great deal of interest from green grass accounts who would like to sell my book in their pro shops,” said Mechem. “We’ve created a program to make it easy for them to add a new revenue stream in their shops by offering my book to their members and guests.

Several clubs throughout the country have ordered books for their shops or tournaments. Here’s what a few of them have to say.

“I loved reading Charlie’s book about Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus,” said Jim Hinckley, CEO, Century Golf Partners. “It was an easy decision for me to order multiple copies for the PGA West and Walt Disney World Golf retail shops. The book basically sells itself and has been doing well in both locations.”

“The Tradition was a special place for Arnold Palmer,” said Tradition Golf Club Director of Golf, Jerry Hixson, PGA. “When his longtime friend and club member, Charlie Mechem, published his latest book about the friendship between Arnie and Jack, we knew we had to make it available to our members. We’ve had tremendous success with the book and highly recommend it as part of your pro shop offerings.” 

“The Memorial Tournament was proud to offer Charlie Mechem’s new book as part of our sponsor and media package this year,” said Tournament Executive Director Dan Sullivan. “It gives a rare glimpse into the relationship between Jack and Arnie and it was a big hit with everyone.”

In Arnie and Jack, Mechem shares some of his most memorable moments that occurred alongside his good friends, Arnold Palmer, and Jack Nicklaus. Some of the recollections he shares are individual stories about Arnie or Jack and some are stories about the two of them together. They all combine to give readers a unique view of two of the most memorable people in golf.

Arnie and Jack is 152 pages and is published by Mission Point Press. It includes forewords by Jack Nicklaus and Doc Giffin, Arnold Palmer’s personal assistant for 50 years.

For wholesale orders, visit MPPDistribution.com or contact Doug Weaver at doug@missionpointpress.com, or 231-421-9513.

Read the Greens, GOLF Media Selected to Promote Charlie Mechem’s New Book, Arnie and Jack

(SAN DIEGO, CA) – Charlie Mechem, former Commissioner of the LPGA, author, and a top advisor to golf legends Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, has selected Read the Greens, GOLF Media to promote the launch of his third book, Arnie and Jack.

Read the Greens’ Director of Media Relations, Vanessa Price, and Director of Communications, Tracy Nackel, will create and implement a comprehensive public relations campaign to launch the new book which will be available in mid-April.

“I’m thrilled to be working with the Read the Greens team,” said Mechem. “They are well-known and well-respected in the golf industry and I’m confident that they will successfully launch my new book. Their collective experience, relationships, and creative ideas will be a real asset to this project.”

Mechem’s third book is about his life and times with two of the most iconic and memorable golfers of all time: Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus. In Arnie and Jack - Stories of My Long Friendship with Two Remarkable Men, Charlie takes golf fans behind the scenes, detailing with energy and wit — and sometimes solemnity — why these great icons of the course excelled at both work and play.

“Charlie has had a remarkable career and has touched many lives with his wit, humor and knowledge,” said Price. “He was one of the very few people who had a close relationship with both Arnie and Jack and our team is excited to work closely with him to promote Arnie and Jack. We all thoroughly enjoyed reading it and look forward to getting it in the hands of golfers worldwide.”

Information about how to pre-order Arnie and Jack will be available soon. The book is being published by Mission Point Press of Traverse City, Michigan.

For more information about Charlie Mechem, visit www.charliemechem.com.

Portland Resident Wallach to Publish Sequel to First Novel

Stand-alone sequel to Mr. Wizard offers new twists in time for St. Patrick’s Day

(New York, NY) — Mysteries, comedy, and atmospheric Irish golf (and Guinness) abound in Everyone Here Is From Somewhere Else, the new novel from Jeff Wallach, author of the highly acclaimed Mr. Wizard, to be published March 17, 2022.

The new stand-alone story continues the tale of middle-aged brothers Phillip and Spencer Elliot, who undertake a quest inspired by their late mother to discover "wonderful things."

The brothers must deal with issues of permanence, change, and legacy as they follow a trail to find their true place in the world and experience events and connections that are as surprising as they are inevitable.

Publisher Open Books chose St. Patrick’s Day for publication to celebrate the Irish heritage—and character Patrick Elliot— featured in the book.

The action takes place in settings ranging from 1950s Brooklyn, to New York’s Catskill Mountains, to present day Portland, Oregon, and the fictitious Irish golf town of Ballydraiocht. Along the way, Wallach offers insights about family, golf, fishing, travel, New York, and other subjects he covered during a distinguished journalism career. 

“I was surprised to learn that I wasn’t quite finished with Phillip and Spencer Elliot and their search for meaning and—in this book—their desire to find their true homes,” Wallach says. “You can’t really know people without knowing where they came from, and even what experiences their parents had.”

John Norville, writer of the beloved golf movie Tin Cup, has said of the new book, “Wallach continues his chronicle of the Elliot brothers as they traverse landscapes of fresh discovery and human connection . . . a journey rich in humor, wit, and insight.”

Wallach is the award-winning author of five non-fiction books and two novels, as well as nearly 1,000 articles, essays, reviews, and columns in The New York Times, The Oregonian, Sports Illustrated, Men’s Journal, GOLF Magazine, Men’s Health, Health, Money Magazine, and many other national publications. He holds a Master’s degree in Fiction Writing from Brown University and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English from Vassar College. He lives in Portland, Oregon. 

Everyone Here will be published by Open Books.  Pre-orders are available on their website, http://www.open-bks.com/library/moderns/everyone-here-is-from-somewhere-else/order.html, and at www.jeffwallach.com. The book will be available from Amazon in April.

Ed Oliver Golf Club Announces Release of Seminal Biography on Ed “Porky” Oliver

(WILMINGTON, Del.) – Ed Oliver Golf Club – located on the original site of Wilmington Country Club and serving the local community for over a century – announces the release of seminal biography How He Played the Game: Ed "Porky" Oliver and Golf's Greatest Generation, written by award-winning author John Riley.

In partnership with Ed Oliver Golf Club, author John Riley will host a book signing event on Thursday, Dec. 2 from 5 – 8 p.m. at the course. The kick-off will benefit the First Tee of Delaware.

The biography explores how Ed Oliver rose from the caddie ranks to become one of the leading professional golfers in the world. After winning the prestigious Western Open, he was suddenly pulled into the U.S. Army with an early draft call and would be away from the game longer than any of his tour competitors. This book portrays more than Oliver’s story. It is a look into how many professionals returned home after serving and built the modern golf tour. They could be called, “Golf’s Greatest Generation.”

“It has been an honor to work with the Oliver family throughout this journey. From Snead and Hogan to Nelson and more, he faced many of the greatest who ever played the game,” says Riley. “For over twenty years, he was one of the most popular figures on tour, so I am humbled to share his story with anyone who appreciates golf.”

The book is now available for preorder on its website and will begin shipping early December, in time for the holidays.

Ed Oliver Golf Club was built on the old site of Wilmington Country Club, which opened in 1901. All that remains of the original design is a 100-year-old chimney located on the signature 18th hole. John Reid designed the first layout that was later recrafted twice, first by Alfred H. Tull, and later by Edmund B. Ault in 1971. The layout has essentially remained the same since and continues to be an asset for the Wilmington community.

“We are so proud of John Riley for bringing the story of Ed Oliver’s remarkable life to not only our community, but the entire golf world,” says Rob Polillo, general manager of Ed Oliver Golf Club. “Oliver portrayed an incredible level of perseverance and commitment to the game, and we look forward to continuing his legacy for years to come.”

More information: https://www.olivergolfbook.com/.

Introducing New Golf Books

Check out these new golf titles.

FAVORITE GOLF QUOTATIONS collects over 200 sayings containing the wisdom and wit from past and present legends of golf and promises to be a great gift for every fan. The great Arnold Palmer famously remarked that golf is, "Without a doubt, the greatest game mankind has ever invented." (978-1-57826-852-8, $12.50 hardcover)

Born on the Links: A Concise History of Golf

by John Williamson

9781493055586 | Paperback | October 2021

Golf has been around for over 600 years, its origins tracing back to the links in Scotland in the fifteenth century. Since then, the game has spread worldwide, with millions of fans and players from all walks of life.

Born on the Links: A Concise History of Golf encompasses the entire history of this popular sport, from the fifteenth century up to the present. It covers the development of golf equipment, rules, and playing fields, and shows how the game changed from a pastime exclusively for the rich to a sport that is played by millions of people of all classes, ages, and backgrounds. In addition, this book details the lives and accomplishments of the many iconic players of the game—including Walter Hagen, Gene Sarazen, Babe Didrikson Zaharias, Ben Hogan, Charlie Sifford, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Annika Sorenstam, and Tiger Woods—and their greatest moments on the golf course. Additional chapters focus exclusively on the history of African Americans and women in the sport, recognizing their distinct struggles for equality and recognition, as well as their ultimate triumphs.

A comprehensive yet readable resource, Born on the Links also features a timeline of golf history, lists of the winners and runners-up of every major professional and amateur golf championship held since 1860, the winner of every major international team and cup competition held since 1922, and more. The most up-to-date history of golf, this book will entertain and inform all fans and historians of the game.

Bubba Watson Opens Up about Mental Health, Fame, Family and Returning Home in New Memoir Up and Down

(RELEASE) — In his highly anticipated new book, Up and Down: Victories and Struggles in the Course of Life (Nov. 2, 2021; W Publishing), champion golfer Bubba Watson shares his story of achieving success on the golf course and how reaching a breaking point professionally and personally drew him closer to his family.

Watson is known as the big-hitting left-handed golfer who plays with the pink driver. He’s the small-town kid who grew up as a child golf prodigy before going on to win two Masters Tournaments, competing in the Olympics, and rising to be the number two golfer in the world.

Up and Down shares many stories of Bubba’s early influences, such as his veteran father who instilled in him

values of loyalty, honesty and hard work. Watson explains how he came to love old-school rap and hip-hop music and chronicles his college courtship of his to-be-wife Angie. The book also dives into Bubba’s career—from first inklings he could be a professional golfer, to the story behind his pink driver, and even to the moment he really became “Bubba.”

He shares why he was drawn to move back to Pensacola, Florida with his family in 2015, and how he opened a golf center, candy and ice cream shop called Bubba’s Sweet Spot, and became part owner of the city’s MLB team named The Pensacola Blue Wahoos. He also supports the local children’s hospital (which just happens to have an address of 1 Bubba Way).

He said in a PGA.com article: “We didn’t have anything growing up, but my mom, to this day she volunteers. My dad was the first person to sign up to be a coach in Little League, to be a leader. When I say legacy, it’s the Watson name. My parents instilled it in me. I want people to realize who I am for my heart, not my golfing ability.”

The true heart of this memoir opens up with Bubba’s struggles to overcome overwhelming anxiety and mental health challenges while journeying through the death of his father and namesake, adopting his children, and trying to become a better husband, father and friend.  

“The truth is my life has been anything but nice and neat. More often than not, it has consisted of ups and downs, triumphs and humiliations, moments of joy, mistakes, and misunderstandings that I’ve had to struggle with and learn from, thanks to some very dear people in my life,” said Watson. “Everybody battles with their own

personal set of demons, and if you know anything at all about me, you know I’ve battled plenty of them as well. The difference between most people and me, I suppose, is that most folks don’t do all the good and bad things in front of millions of people.”

After reaching the point where he was willing to quit golf to save his health, Bubba found the strength to carry on through the support of his tightknit network of family, friends, mentors, and ultimately his faith.

“I chose to make golf and life fun again. To live the life I wanted, not the life people expected me to live,” said Watson. “Somewhere along the way, I began to accept that there is a bit of a pattern that connects my life and my performance on the golf course. My best playing didn’t come back until I regained control of the fear and anxieties that were clouding my mind. I think that the struggles I’ve had with the mental side of my game have made me a better coach and, dare I say, captain.”

Today, Watson is winning on his best course ever—the course of life, being the best husband, father, and sportsman he can be.

Scotland, Home of Golf Exquisitely Showcases 14 Top Links Courses

Glorious Photography and Fascinating Facts Pay Homage to Golf’s Birthplace

(St. Andrews, Scotland) — Stunning air and ground photography coupled with fascinating facts, historical context and meticulously drawn illustrations offer readers a visual journey across 14 iconic golf courses in Scotland, Home of Golf. Iain and Chris Lowe, who specialize in golf course photography, teamed up with Scottish golf historian David Joy to honor the birthplace of golf with this stirring pictorial of 14 “must play” seaside links courses on every golf enthusiast’s wish list.

From the breathtaking grandeur of the Old Course, the oldest in the world, to the Carnoustie Golf Links, home of “Golf’s Greatest Test,” the 14 courses featured in Scotland, Home of Golf represent 600 years of the game’s history. The courses are exquisitely showcased from the air and the ground in captivating photos that illuminate the singular topography and inspired architecture of the links form of golf. Woven throughout is information sharing the rich history of the courses and the greatest players to have played them—there are moments of great sadness, of great joy and incredible achievements. Four modern designs, constructed since 2000, are also included as the most sought-after new links golf experiences. The highlighted courses in order of appearance are: Carnoustie, Kingsbarns, The Old Course, Dumbarnie, Muirfield, North Berwick, Turnberry, Prestwick, Royal Troon, Castle Stuart, Royal Dornoch, Cruden Bay, Trump International and Royal Aberdeen.

“This book is a love letter about Scottish links courses,” Iain Lowe says. “It is our best efforts to show that this is far more than just game of club and ball. It can be a consuming passion.”

Scotland, Home of Golf is the collaboration of the accomplished St. Andrews based father and son photography team of Iain and Christopher Lowe, with expert text and detailed illustrations by noted Scottish golf historian, author, artist and fourth generation St. Andrean David Joy. Joy also is known for his compelling and accurate portrayal of Old Tom Morris in acclaimed performances around the world. Together, the Lowes have four photographic golf book titles to their credit. Iain’s award-winning career of some 50 years includes 25 years shooting Scottish golf courses, and the publication of nine golf books featuring evocative photographic course tours. While Scotland is home to the Lowe’s photography business, they have performed commissioned work around the world in destinations such as the U.S., Cyprus, Morocco, Australia and South Africa.

For more information, visit www.scottishgolflibrary.com.

Unboxing a Book on the Joys of Walking a Golf Course

"Good Walks: Rediscovering the Soul of Golf at Eighteen of the Carolinas' Best Courses" by Lee Pace celebrates the beauty, tradition, and variety of golf across the Carolinas, featuring 18 courses as experienced by the walking golfer. 

One of golf's earliest appeals was its health-giving benefits, with players walking some four miles over varied terrain, making stamina and endurance an important part of the sport. Most recreational players today choose motorized carts. But Lee Pace believes that the slower pace and on-the-ground view associated with walking gives one an opportunity to savor the experience, understand the nuances of course design and landscape architecture, and appreciate the small touches that make our region's best clubs and courses special. 

The Carolinas are a cradle for the game in the United States, making walking its courses an ideal way to connect past and present.

Add this book to your library.

Unboxing Jim McLean's "Build Your Swing: Position Teaching in the Modern Age"

While it may be difficult to keep all your members active and stay healthy with social distancing restrictions, golf is one activity many are flocking to. Something that hasn’t changed is that golf can be difficult to play and teach. In "Build Your Swing: Position Teaching in the Modern Age," let Hall of Fame instructor Jim McLean teach you step-by-step how to perfect your members' golf swings.

McLean draws on an unparalleled wealth of golfing knowledge and experience, developed from decades of teaching all ages and skill levels, including pros Cristie Kerr, Lexie Thompson, and Webb Simpson, among many others. Jim rejects a one-size-fit-all approach and avoids cookie-cutter instruction. What golfers need is sound fundamentals with adjustments for each player’s swing. This proven building-block book is easy to follow with the inclusion of over one hundred illustrations by nationally syndicated top golf artist Phil Franké.

Order a copy for your teaching library: https://www.amazon.com/Build-Your-Swing-Position-Teaching/dp/1635769949/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=build+your+swing&qid=1597339601&sr=8-1

Unboxing Designs on a Better Golf Course: Practical Answers to Common Questions for Green Committees

Designs on a Better Golf Course: Practical answers to common questions for Green Committees, is now available on Amazon from ASGCA Foundation. The book, conceived and edited by ASGCA Past President Jeff Brauer, provides information on more than 50 topics over that may be raised by Green Committee members and other golf course decision makers as they consider improvements at their facilities.

The easy-to-read chapters in Designs on a Better Course are divided into 11 sections, including Renovations, Tees, Greens, Fairways and Roughs, Hazards, and Construction.

Besides text, the book features a number graphics and charts, including the Life Expectancy for a course’s infrastructure, Maximum Slope for Green Speeds, suggested size for Tees and much more.

Designs on a Better Golf Course: Practical answers to common questions for Green Committees can be purchased on Amazon at https://tinyurl.com/y6yym523.

Designs on a Better Golf Course released, providing “Practical answers to common questions for Green Committees”

New book from ASGCA Foundation addresses 50+ topics with engaging and entertaining information

(BROOKFIELD, Wis.) — Designs on a Better Golf Course: Practical answers to common questions for Green Committees, in now available on Amazon from ASGCA Foundation. The book, conceived and edited by ASGCA Past President Jeff Brauer, provides information on more than 50 topics over that may be raised by Green Committee members and other golf course decision makers as they consider improvements at their facilities.

The easy-to-read chapters in Designs on a Better Course are divided into 11 sections, including Renovations, Tees, Greens, Fairways and Roughs, Hazards, and Construction.

Designs on a Better Golf Course: Practical answers to common questions for Green Committees can be purchased on Amazon at https://tinyurl.com/y6yym523.

“This book provides helpful information for those making decisions about golf facilities,” said Brauer, who has written for numerous publications, including Golf Course Industry magazine. “Whether a Green Committee member, Superintendent or Course manager, having a basic understanding of how golf course architecture affects all aspects of your course and operation is a first step to a finished product that is more playable and profitable. That’s where this book comes in.”

Besides text, the book features a number graphics and charts, including the Life Expectancy for a course’s infrastructure, Maximum Slope for Green Speeds, suggested size for Tees and much more.

Author JJ Keegan previewed Designs on a Better Golf Course: “There were many fabulous things in this tome and some that surprised me,” he said. “The insights that ‘every design is a compromise’ and ‘The focus of some architects is to prevent what golfers want – a good score’ are among the candid comments that make this book a valuable resource. By itself, the charts on ‘Green Slope vs. Speed’ and ‘The Appropriate Size of the Green based on the Length of the Approach Shot,’ create fabulous guidance that validates why purchasing this book is a wise investment.”

Following is a brief sample from the chapter, “How do we Implement a Forward Tee Program or other Systems?” “Try to resist targeting any specific total course yardage over designing each hole for how different players really play golf and/or lengthening holes based on tradition or ‘gut feeling.’ Yes, the holes may become much shorter, but they probably need to, and that is the point of the program!”

“The information included in Designs on a Better Golf Course meets the ASGCA Foundation’s mission to ‘support the health of the game of golf by funding and administering programs that grow the game,’” said Foundation President Lee Schmidt, ASGCA. “Jeff was assisted on this project by a committee of ASGCA members who provided content, comment and perspective, including Nathan Crace, Richard Mandell, Greg Muirhead and John Sanford.”

Mr. Wizard: Funny, Vivid Fast-Paced Novel Now Available

Genetic Treasure Hunt and Plot Twists Make This Debut Story a Must-Read

(New York, NY) — Mr. Wizard, the debut novel by Jeff Wallach (Open Books), follows Phillip and Spencer Elliot, two brothers who learn via DNA testing that their supposed father is not who they thought. The brothers pursue a genetic treasure hunt by following clues that may or may not have been left by their wild mother, Jenny—herself a master of misdirection. While searching to learn more about their identities the brothers consider who they are and what that means: are they pure products of genetics; formed more completely by upbringing and social interactions; victims of randomness; or some combination of these factors?

The action takes place in 1970s Long Island, and current-day Manhattan and Ireland. The book features plenty of scenes at golf courses and clubs in both New York and Ireland; movie and musical references; a women’s golf champion who also plays drums in a band called Gorsey Park; and the world’s driest Alzheimer’s joke.

“My experiences researching stories for golf and travel magazine for the past 35 years have made a strong impact on my fiction” explains Wallach of his initial work in this genre. “Mr. Wizard will be most interesting to folks who grew up in the 1970s; people who love to travel; golfers; those interested in ancestry; and readers who like a good mystery with a surprise ending.”

Wallach is the award-winning author of four non-fiction books as well as nearly 1,000 articles, essays, reviews, and columns in The New York Times, The Oregonian, Sports Illustrated, Men’s Journal, GOLF Magazine, Men’s Health, Health, Money Magazine, and many other national publications.

“Jeff Wallach is a prodigiously gifted writer—insightful, funny, and always surprising. Mr. Wizard twists and turns like a double helix,” says Terri Cheney, New York Times bestselling author. “When you finish, you’ll want to go back to the very first page and experience it all over again, just to see how Wallach pulled it off.”

Wallach holds a Masters degree in Fiction Writing from Brown University and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English from Vassar College. He lives, writes, hikes, and plays soccer and golf in Portland, Oregon, and around the world.

Mr. Wizard is available from Open Books this month and at Amazon.  

Click HERE to read an interview with the author, Jeff Wallach.

Watch the official book trailer on YouTube.

Shot Scope Debuts New Version of e-Book Learning Series for Golfers—How Data Can Help You Improve

Manufacturer of The World’s Smartest Golf Watch Delivers Insight and Case Studies on How Data Can Positively Impact Performance

(Green Brook, N.J.) — Shot Scope (www.shotscope.com), a leading international manufacturer of GPS-based golf management systems, today announced the release of its newest e-book, How Data Can Help You Improve, which is available for FREE via download at https://shotscope.com/us/ebook/.

The 3rd e-book in the Company’s learning series, How Data Can Help You Improve highlights seven Shot Scope case studies to help golfers better understand the benefits of tracking their game, and how analyzing data can help improve performance.

“Shot Scope technology has been used by tens of thousands of golfers and our measured data shows the average player improves by nearly three strokes thanks to our combined distance and performance tracking capabilities,” said Gavin Dear, Chief Commercial Officer, Shot Scope. “Our new e-book series offers an educational resource for golfers of all levels, delivering more complete knowledge on how to more effectively leverage data to maximize performance on the course.”  

In addition to the new e-book How Data Can Help You Improve, the following e-books are also available for download:
e-book 1: The Ultimate Golfer's Guide
Provides a series of anecdotes and helpful tips in four key performance areas: tee shots, approaches, short game and putting.
e-book 2: The Top Ten Strategy Mistakes
Focuses on the top 10 course strategy mistakes golfers make.

For more information on Shot Scope products visit www.shotscope.com, and to download any e-book visit https://shotscope.com/ebook.

USGA Honors Biography of Sir Michael Bonallack as 2018 Herbert Warren Wind Book Award Winner

(LIBERTY CORNER, N.J.) – The USGA has named Par Excellence: The Biography of Sir Michael Bonallack, OBE, as the recipient of the Herbert Warren Wind Book Award for 2018, in recognition of its high standard of achievement in golf literature.

Established in 1987, the Herbert Warren Wind Book Award recognizes and honors outstanding contributions to golf literature. Named for the famed 20th-century American golf writer, the award acknowledges and encourages outstanding research, writing and publishing about golf. Presented by the USGA Golf Museum, the Book Award is the top literary prize awarded by the USGA.

Author Donald Steel was recognized at the USGA’s Annual Meeting and Service Awards in San Antonio, Texas, February 23.

“Donald Steel’s biography of Sir Michael Bonallack is yet another noteworthy accomplishment in his remarkable career in golf,” said Rand Jerris, USGA senior managing director of Public Services. “A true renaissance man, whose achievements span from print journalism to course design to elite competitions, Steel exemplifies the world Herbert Warren Wind profiled so affectionately – a place where dedicated amateurs give completely of themselves to the game we all love.”

A combination of engaging prose, thorough research and appealing design makes Steel’s book an important addition to golf history – particularly as the first book on such a prominent and significant personality of the game, Sir Michael Bonallack. In the biography, Steel explores the proud, centuries’ old Bonallack dynasty through the lens of golf’s golden couple, Michael and Angela Bonallack. Romantically weaving a narrative of Bonallack’s far-ranging golf contributions, Steel takes his readers on a journey from Bonallack’s playing glory, to his role as secretary of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club, and ultimately to his knighthood and election as captain of The R&A. Through it all, the book puts family first, just as Michael and Angela have always done in their six decades of marriage.

In addition to recognizing golf literature, the Herbert Warren Wind Book Award also seeks to broaden public interest in, and knowledge of, the game of golf. Wind, who died in 2005, was a famed writer for The New Yorker and Sports Illustrated who coined the phrase “Amen Corner” at Augusta National Golf Club. He is the only writer to win the Bob Jones Award, the USGA’s highest honor.

The USGA is currently accepting submissions for the 2019 Herbert Warren Wind Book Award. To be eligible, a book must be an original full-length work about golf, written in English, and must have been published between November 2018 and October 2019. For more information, contact Hilary Cronheim at the USGA Golf Museum at museum@usga.org.

To learn more, visit usga.org.

Hacker is Back, and the Royal & Ancient May Never Be the Same

(RELEASE) - Yeoman House Books has announced that the newest edition of author James Y. Bartlett’s Hacker Golf Mystery series will be published July 1, 2018.  Death from the Claret Jug again features the adventures of golf writer Pete Hacker, who covers the game for his Boston newspaper. Hacker is in St. Andrews, Scotland to cover the Open Championship and finds there is trouble afoot in the Auld Grey Toon as an official with the Links Trust is murdered, and his body dropped into the depths of the Bottle Dungeon at St. Andrews Castle.

Whodunnit? The cast of suspects includes a flamboyant and controversial American resort developer with a history of run-ins with the Links Trust. But there’s also a professor at St. Andrews University who wants to ban golf entirely and disrupt the tournament; the Marquis Cheape, whose family has for generations held the title to the land beneath the famed Old Course; and some shadowy Russian figures who might be interested in a big business deal, or might just be interested in mayhem.

So while the world’s best golfers are battling the elements and the golf course to win the title of “Champion Golfer of the Year,” Hacker is chasing leads and clues from pub to pub on the narrow and twisting lanes of St. Andrews. And Hacker’s girlfriend, Mary Jane, is along for the ride on her first visit to Scotland.

Death from the Claret Jug is Bartlett’s fifth Hacker mystery. And along with the recent publication of Death in a Green Jacket, set at the Masters in Augusta, Ga., Bartlett has made the turn in his planned four-book Major series.

Bartlett has been called “the Dick Francis of golf” by Golfweek. Golf Today said “Clearly, [Bartlett] knows the nuances and dynamics of the golf world, but beyond that, he’s also a splendid storyteller.”

“Passages fall with the sweet sound of the ball rattling into the cup,” said a reviewer at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.  “Romps right along…Bartlett knows how to tell a story,” was the verdict of the Boston Globe. “Hacker is blessed with a feisty cynicism, a critical eye and a sharp wit that makes him thoroughly enjoyable,” said On Course Living.

Death from the Claret Jug will be available in both trade paperback ($14.99) and e-book ($4.99) editions, and can be purchased from Amazon.com.

And The Putter Went…PING Book Available May 1

(PHOENIX) – PING’s new book, And The Putter Went…PING, an inspiring and comprehensive look inside the family owned company that revolutionized the way golf equipment was designed and manufactured, will be available for purchase beginning May 1.

The book chronicles PING’s heritage and its on-going efforts to advance golf technology for the benefit of golfers of all skill levels. It takes readers behind the scenes of a genuine American success story that began in the family garage of Karsten Solheim, a Norwegian immigrant and mechanical engineer who invented the PING putter in 1959.

And The Putter Went…PING will be available at authorized PING retailers and through www.ping-shop.com. Visitors to PING’s headquarters in Phoenix will also be able to purchase the book. U.S. MSRP is $100. A limited edition with padded leather binding and gilded edges will be available for a U.S. MSRP of $300.

It is written by Jeffery B. Ellis, the author of numerous golf books, including the critically acclaimed The Clubmaker’s Art: Antique Golf Clubs and Their History. Nearly 1,000 pictures, many never-before published, provide a visual history of the brand and Ellis’ insightful writing reveals several heart-warming and humorous stories for the first time. More than 70 people were interviewed and thousands of hours were spent researching the company archives and industry periodicals to help illustrate the rich and influential history of the brand named for the sound made by its first product – the PING 1A putter.

“And The Putter Went…PING represents a 4½ -year effort with contributions by several current and former PING employees, friends of the company, golf professionals and industry leaders who shared their memories and insights into what has made PING such a special company with millions of loyal customers all over the world,” said John A. Solheim, PING Chairman & CEO.

“We’ve shared a lot of personal stories and recalled many special memories dating back to the early days in our garage and leading up to the company we are today,” Solheim continued. “Our family and employees have been very fortunate to be part of the golf industry for nearly 60 years. The book is a reflection of our never-ending commitment to making golf more enjoyable, and a tribute to all the golfers who have relied on PING products to play their best. We wouldn’t have a story like this without their belief in our products and processes.”

The 530-page, 16-chapter book captures Karsten’s pioneering spirit and his amazing ability to solve problems through innovative solutions that set industry standards still in effect today. You’ll learn about the early obstacles the company faced and the Solheims’ determination to overcome them while staying true to the principles that still guide the family owned company today. Two chapters are devoted to the highly publicized and vigorously debated “square groove” controversy of the late 1980s, in more depth than ever reported.

For fans of PING’s extensive product line, the book documents the evolution of PING’s innovative and game-changing products and the inspiration behind them, including the story of the legendary PING EYE2 iron and its impact on golfers around the world. The unmatched success of the Anser putter and its continued influence on putter design more than 50 years after its invention is covered in detail.

Karsten’s pioneering role in custom fitting and the impact of tour professionals on his fitting process is documented in a chapter that takes readers inside the logic of the iconic PING Color Code Chart and the science behind the company’s top-rated fitting systems.

John A. Solheim, the youngest child of Karsten and Louise, wrote the foreword. The afterword is authored by John K. Solheim, John A.’s oldest son, who was recently named PING president.

The book is published by Zephyr Productions, Inc.

‘Fighting Golf: Flow with Force and Fly,’ Frames Golf as Combat, Shows Players How to ‘F Their Games’

(Dulles, VA) – A new book, Fighting Golf: Flow with Force and Fly, by nationally-acclaimed golf instructor and LPGA Northeast Teacher of the Year Tiffany Faucette, was released today and teaches golfers how to fearlessly and confidently “’F’ Their Games.”

Faucette’s fresh approach to improve scores combines battle and body awareness resulting in a confident mindset, better positioning and forceful swings.

In Fighting Golf, Faucette explains how she has always viewed golf as a fight. “You hear the word ‘fight’ all the time – ‘I’m fighting this hole; it’s a struggle,’” she explains. “But truly, when you’re in the right mindset, you’re the one fighting and attacking the ball.”

Unlike other golf books, Fighting Golf gives all readers – from rank novices to elite tournament athletes – a full spectrum of instruction, inspiration and advice. With her fierce-but-friendly approach and detailed photographs, Faucette shows players how to rethink ways they use their bodies and brains so they can train themselves to hit winning shots.

The conversational style of the book introduces readers to Faucette’s playing background on the pro circuit and how she overcame roadblocks in her swing with simple changes to body mechanics that have huge impacts on any swing.

“It was imperative to make Fighting Golf easily digestible and enjoyable, so players would keep turning pages” Faucette says. “At the same time, I give very detailed instructions, so each movement makes sense and is easy to replicate on the range, course or at home.”

Fighting Golf breaks down complex swing theory into comprehensible drills such as “Throw a Punch,” “Pick up a Heavy Bucket,” “Hold off an Intruder” and “Bored at a Cocktail Party.”  While drill names may elicit smiles, they directly address simple postures and grips that turn soft swings into powerful ones.  Close-up and full-body photographs help players put tips immediately into practice and their games.

One way Faucette injects new elements of fun into the game is with her patented “F Your Game” philosophy and various productive F-words to make your game the finest.

Bringing Fighting Golf to the shelves has long been Faucette’s passion.

“I’m working hard to re-frame this game that’s been around for centuries; some say it’s old and stodgy, but golf is so far from that. Golf is fun. It’s violent. It’s exciting!”

“Fighting Golf brings that concept to life for a lot of people,” Faucette continues, “and nourishes players so much they renew their love of the game and invite their friends to play. Golf welcomes everyone: it’s you, a golf ball and a whole lot of fun about to happen!”

Fighting Golf is on Amazon.com where it’s quickly become five-star rated and the No. 1 new golf coaching book. It is also for purchase on fightinggolf.com where golfers access “F Your Game” tips. Part proceeds of Fighting Golf benefit LPGA Girls’ Golf.

USGA Selects Two Winners For 2016 Herbert Warren Wind Book Award

(FAR HILLS, N.J.) – For the first time since the award was established in 1987, the USGA has selected two winners for the 2016 Herbert Warren Wind Book Award. The award recognizes and honors outstanding contributions to golf literature while attempting to broaden public interest in, and knowledge of, the game of golf.

Kevin Robbins, author of "Harvey Penick: The Life and Wisdom of the Man Who Wrote the Book on Golf," and Peter Lewis, author of "Why Are There Eighteen Holes?: St. Andrews and the Evolution of Golf Courses, 1764-1890," will both receive the Herbert Warren Wind Book Award at the USGA’s Annual Meeting and Service Awards in Washington, D.C., on Saturday, Feb. 4.

“Frankly, it’s not likely to happen again – but this year, after much discussion, we decided that we had two books worthy of the 2016 award,” said Adam Barr, director of the USGA Golf Museum. “Each contributes something distinct and valuable in terms of research and narrative style, two attributes that always rank high in our deliberations.”

In Harvey Penick: The Life and Wisdom of the Man Who Wrote the Book on Golf, Robbins tells the story of Penick, the late golf coach, competitor and instructor who in 1992 with Bud Shrake penned the Little Red Book: Lessons and Teachings From a Lifetime, considered by many the quintessential golf advice and instruction book.

Robbins provides the first biography of the iconic and revered Texan who caddied for Francis Ouimet, served as the longtime head golf professional at Austin Country Club, played with Ben Hogan and Bob Jones, shaped Ben Crenshaw, and distilled his golf wisdom into The Little Red Book, bringing simplicity to a complex yet beloved game.

“Kevin Robbins brings a storyteller’s approach to the book, which includes passages worthy of Herbert Warren Wind himself,” said Barr. “Given that Harvey Penick wrote one of the best-selling sports books ever (The Little Red Book), his life and the book are both subjects deep enough to be worthy of the award.”

Millions of people were charmed by the homespun golf advice dispensed in Penick’s Little Red Book and its three sequels. Yet, beyond the Texas golf courses where Penick plied his trade for the better part of eight decades, few people knew the man who coaxed the best out of countless champions – Tom Kite, Crenshaw, Betsy Rawls, Mickey Wright, Davis Love III – all of whom considered Penick their mentor and lifelong friend.  

“It is an enormous thrill and tremendous honor to receive an award named after Herbert Warren Wind, who was the greatest storyteller that the game has ever known,” said Robbins. “Harvey Penick spoke to so many people through the words in his Little Red Book. I wanted readers of my book to understand what golf actually meant to Harvey by exploring his backstory.”

Robbins is a senior lecturer at the University of Texas School of Journalism. He joined the university in 2012 after 22 years in daily newspapers and currently teaches courses in sports journalism and feature writing.

In Why Are There Eighteen Holes?: St. Andrews and the Evolution of Golf Courses, 1764-1890, Peter Lewis takes readers on a journey through the 18th and 19th centuries to discover why there are 18 holes on a course. Drawing on a wide range of contemporary sources, he reveals that early courses had varying numbers of holes and were judged by the quality of their turf, putting greens and hazards. He shows why, during the 1880s, as golf became more popular, the ideal number of holes was increasingly seen as being 18.

Beyond the question that serves as the book’s title, Lewis documents the history of golf courses in Britain before 1890, exploring how a young game found its footing – and the role that St. Andrews and The R&A played in that story.

“Peter Lewis’ scholarly reputation goes side by side with his love of the game, and it shows in this work,” said Barr. “Deeply researched yet engaging and accessible, this volume will be pulled off shelves again and again by those seeking insights into some of the game’s most hallowed traditions.”

“I am deeply honored and absolutely delighted to win this award,” said Lewis. “When writing the book, I set out on a journey to discover why 18 holes became the ideal number for a golf course, why St. Andrews was considered ‘the home of golf’ and how the Royal and Ancient Golf Club became a governing body of the game. These are simple questions that turned out to have complicated answers.  It is very gratifying that the Herbert Warren Wind Award Committee enjoyed musing over my conclusions.”

Lewis was the director of the British Golf Museum from 1988 to 2009, when he became The R&A’s director of film archive and then director of historical research. After retiring last year, Lewis was given the title of emeritus historian of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club. He has written or co-authored numerous books, including a three-volume history of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club.

Established in 1987, the Herbert Warren Wind Book Award recognizes and honors outstanding contributions to golf literature. Named for the famed 20th-century American golf writer, the award acknowledges and encourages outstanding research, writing and publishing about golf. Presented by the USGA Golf Museum, the Book Award is the top literary prize awarded by the United States Golf Association.

The USGA is currently accepting submissions for the 2017 Herbert Warren Wind Book Award. To be eligible, a book must be an original full-length work about golf, written in English, and must have been published between November 2016 and October 2017. For more information, contact Nancy Stulack, the USGA Museum’s librarian, at 908-781-1107 or nstulack@usga.org.