Live from the US Open - Bethpage June 23, 2009

SO LONG BETHPAGE!

It’s over. I’m back home. US Open withdrawal.

It was a wet, wild, exciting demanding week. I’m exhausted. Sure, we flew 3,000 miles, were up early a few days, walked miles and worked hard. That said, all volunteers work hard. The people in charge of the various volunteer committees are – well – nuts. They are great people but who their right mind would volunteer to begin work at 6 am EVERY DAY FOR 10 DAYS and end around 11 pm? These amazing people who for their efforts get a free set of tickets and a better parking space. My hat is off to our leaders Denice and Jimmy. And all the volunteers who put in their time to make it happen

Now, the people who REALLY work…

I just found out that the people who man the concession stands are volunteers. I thought for sure they were paid. It is not a job I would want and they got a ticket and a free burger for their efforts. Hats off!

The ground crews are always under the gun at golf courses – daily. What the keepers from all over Long Island accomplished last week to keep the Open going is nothing short of stunning. You had to be there to see the conditions – the water, the mud, the mess. Some of the fairways and greens were mini lakes. Good thing the island is basically a sand bar so drainage was pretty good. They not only kept the course playable they got the grounds to where people could actually attend. Some in 6” of mud but shoes and feet are washable. Hats off!

I can’t imagine the exhaustion of the players some of whom played in horrific conditions for any tournament much less the US Open. The mental and physical fatigue must have been overwhelming. No one wants to miss the cut at any professional tournament but my mind wonders if a few of those who did miss it – in their heart of hearts – were glad they did. Whether you drove your 1999 Honda to play at Bethpage or flew in on your private jet you were still beyond exhaustion. Hats off!

Last – as tired as players may have been I don’t think it comes close to their caddies. Those guys and gals are truly amazing. I hope they all got huge bonuses just for not running off into the trees screaming. I read that Lucas Glover’s caddy promised him he would buy him a corvette the next time he won a tournament. What’s with that? Shouldn’t it be the other way around? Anyway, those bags weigh a ton before the rain hits. Then they have to put in the rain gear, umbrellas and heaven only knows what else. It was really difficult to walk Bethpage last week – I simply can’t imagine doing it carrying that bag. All hats off!

One last shout out to American Express! In past years they have lent card holders little mini TVs so they could follow the action on the broadcast. Very cool but they borrowed out early each day. This year the GAVE AWAY little headsets (like for cell phones) on lanyards that tuned into the Sirius radio broadcast. It enabled you to walk around, sit in a bleacher and keep tabs on the rest of the course. It was awesome. As we sat on 17 all day Monday we knew exactly what all the leaders were doing. Can’t imagine what that cost but sure hope they do it again next year.

One final thank you to Jeff who has put up with this nonsense and finally succumbed and joined the fun. He took all the great pictures we posted...hopefully more cool shots next year. If only we could get a press pass -- so many great pictures during the days of play are imprinted in my brain but the no camera rule makes them only mine to see.

And speaking of next year – Pebble Beach!!! It was my ultimate goal when I started this adventure with my simple volunteer application. Get to the Open at Pebble. Well as soon as I get my laundry done I’ll be thinking about next June. The weather will be unpredictable but then, isn’t it always? Wait until they get here – Chambers Bay – in 2015!

The whole week was a blast. Met some great people but I am pretty sure the first day’s tailgating group will be a top memory from Bethpage. Marty, Jimmy et all – you made our week. Stay in touch.

Thanks to all who took the time to read this nonsense each day – hope you enjoyed it half as much as I did writing it. Until next June…keep working on that handicap!

Live from the US Open - Bethpage June 22, 2009

FIREWORKS!!! FINALLY!

It's day 187, or so it seems, of the 2009 US Open at Bethpage and we finally get excitement. And it was pretty darn exciting from the 17th green where all kinds of things happened. Some were outstanding. Many - not so much. And the second best part - NO RAIN!!! I don't think even the worst rain could have rained on Lucas Glover's parade today. Thousands of congratulations to the last man standing - the one that did not fold down the stretch. I am so glad he won it with his play and did not back into it. What a great finish for him. No one can ever take it away - Lucas Glover, US Open Champion!

When you go to the last day of the US Open, as in life, there are choices to be made. Do you try to follow a group? Do you pick out a good fairway? Do you plant yourself in a grandstand? In my opinion, following a group that is in contention is not a great idea. Following a group that includes Phil or Tiger? Downright stupid because you will never see him. Fairway? Could be a great location but there is no place to sit and if you move an inch, you bird's eye view is toast. That leaves a grandstand...which one to choose.

Bethpage is divided by a road - 1, 15, 16, 17 and 18 are on one side and every other hole on the other. The other side of the road has some awesome holes but you will not see anything close to the end of the tournament. 18 is great but, like Little Eva, a one-hit wonder. (you are really old if you know what that means :) So, we opt for 17 which gives us a view of 17 (duh!) plus 15 tee, 16 green and a really, really far away look at second shots on 18.

We are there when the horn sounds at 9. Between 9 and 1ish when the last group came through, we saw all but 5 groups. It was a stellar choice in my humble opinion. We also saw one birdie - I think. We saw an awful lot of bogies too.

17 is two-tiered with today's pin on the upper level about 8 feet from the down slope. Only two players were within 10 feet - Tiger and someone else early. I forget. Sorry. If you were on the lower level to get it up to stay, you had to hit it hard. Not one player left it below the hole. One one was within three feet. Nasty, NASTY pin placement. I think the guys who choose the pin placements escaped from some nasty prison and take their frustrations out on professional golfers. I can think of many who would agree this evening.

Tiger's shot was awesome but he missed again. Bad, bad, bad putter this week. He needs to send it to behavior modification classes before the Open. More on that later...notice that the US Open is the US Open...the British Open as we call it is simply "the Open" to everyone else.

Phil gave us some serious thrills...being ever the Tiger fan it was tough but I found myself really rooting for Phil when it was clear Tiger would not win. Actually, I was secretly rooting for Phil too while Tiger was still in the hunt - I just couldn't let Tiger know it. I don't know whether Phil lost it on 15 but he definitely lost it on 17. With Phil's putting ability I was floored that he did not make 100% certain he would hit the green. Instead he went for hole high but pushed it just a tad. Goodbye US Open. Hello Amy - I'm comin' home.

David Duval - a real sentimental favorite. Welcome back! He can be really hard to root for as his demeanor and attitude can be rather troublesome. I was rooting for him because he's had eight tough years. His physical issues (back) were difficult and it looks like it is better. But Duval married a lady during these years who was/is (not sure) quite ill and he took time away from his game to take care of her and her children. That says a lot about a man. I wish he had won. I'm glad he is back and I hope he keeps it up.

A little more about Duval - if anyone remembers back to the Ryder Cup when he made some rather negative comments about it and all the hoopla, etc. Didn't mean much to the somewhat arrogant Duval who was in his prime. The Ryder Cup gets to anyone who even admits to having a heart including people who never even play or watch golf. The Ryder Cup got to Duval and he learned a big lesson about team and country. Had the guts to admit it as well. I wonder if David took the time to seek out Rory McIlroy this week to give the young man a little advice about the Ryder Cup. Hope so - Rory needed it.

Ricky Barnes didn't have it today. Nerves? Three days of great play was all he had? Who knows but he seems like a very nice young man whose time has finally come. It is always sad to see a player blow up the last day of the Open but he hung in there to finish second. Good for him that he didn't give up. Keep it up, Ricky!

Don't know a lot about Lucas Glover other than he is the 2009 US Open Champion and we had dinner together on Friday evening. Okay, he was at the next table but still...Congratulations! Nothing else to say.

How I wish I had had a camera today...the scene from my seat was amazing. Bleachers overflowing, fans 10 deep on the fairways. Any place there was even the slightest elevation to stand on was taken for a better view. The New York fans finally had something to cheer about and they do love Phil. When he got to 17 tee, they forgot they were at a golf tournament and started and clapping that time-honored football cheer - Let's go Phil! It was amazing. Phil loves these fans and he gave them thrills. But disappointment is the name of the game for Phil Mickelson at the US Open. Wonder how many chances like this will come again for him...I hope at least one where he can claim the trophy that means so much to him.

There is always one hole at the Open that makes life miserable and this year it was 15. Long, long, uphill par four. It took the US Open away from Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson and numerous others. Tiger was 4 over par on 15 - 2 bogies and one double. Let's see - 0 minus 4 is 4 under par. He is tied! Phil was 2 over par on 15 - I think 2 under minus 2 is 4 under par. He is tied! Granted, others bogied it as well including Glover one day. But in the scheme of things I think 15 provided the most misery. And excitement. It was the first bleacher to fill up each day - I never sat there but wish I had for a little while just to get the excitement of it all.

It was a very exciting finish to say the least...it's time for dinner and early bedtime. Going home in the morning. Final thoughts tomorrow...

Live from the US Open - Bethpage June 21, 2009

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DANA AND BOB!!!

Once again it is Father's Day at the US Open! And like last year, fathers playing and watchingcame away empty-handed. This is getting to be a habit. This year we saw none of the excitement of 2008 at Torrey Pines which is forever etched in our minds. Well, mine anyway.

Tiger had all kinds of opportunities to create fireworks but simply could not sink a putt. When was the last time Tiger missed a four-footer for birdie? When he was 4? Ended the long day with a bird so maybe that will kick start his round tomorrow.

Phil the Thrill had his moments with birdies on 16 and 18 and the crowd was beside itself. What was really cool is we were watching the giant TV since getting to a grandstand after the shift was not even an option. We could see him get ready to putt and then heard the roars before we actually saw him putt. Happened both times.

David Duval - hangin' in there. Would love for him to finish well or even win. Wonder if he has the temperment to do it though.

What to think about Lucas and Ricky...don't know. History says they will both fold under the pressure. If Ricky had gotten off well and at least parred one it would have been huge. But he went home remembering the stroke that got away and now he's tied. Lucas at least got through one. I think what will hurt them at least as much as the enormous pressure of leading the US Open is if Tiger and/or Phil get their mojo going and the roars start to rain down all over the course.

Speaking of rain, it is once again in the forecast but not until the afternoon. So round 4 should get finished. Should there be a playoff, it might be a wet one. The Golf gods went on vacation this week - shame on them!

I think anyone residing on the first page of the leaderboard, plus Tiger, have great chances. Then again, someone could do an impersonation of Johnny Miller at Oakmont. Anything can happen. It has before. It is, after all, the US Open!

Side note, mud is everywhere!!!!

Live from the US Open - Bethpage June 20, 2009

Yesterday's Photo

You should have seen these when the mud was wet

Saturday – Almost Moving Day – at the US Open!

Saturday began at 4:45 am – 6:00 am shift. And I volunteered for this?

The good news – it is not raining – the sun will shine at least for awhile. And, I have been sent to the grandstand at 15 Tee/16 Green to watch over the disabled folks that want to sit there. There is definitely no problem there for me!

6 o’clock in the morning is an interesting time – it’s quiet and there are (relatively) few in the crowd. The stands are almost empty and play is not scheduled to begin until 7:30. I have this bird’s eye view of the day’s awakening. I look over to one of the concession stands which typically have lines of 25 to 50 minutes (I’m NOT going there – yet) and three or four people are on line. This is the first early shift I have worked and I think I like it. An added plus – done at 10:30 and the day is mine to see what I want to see. Gotta love that!

I was very lucky with my assignment. I got see ¾ of the field go through including all the biggies – Tiger, Phil, Jim, Rocco, Vijay. Oh, forgot. This year’s biggies are Ricky and Lucas, David and Azuma. As for last evening’s question – I did find out who Azuma Yano is. I’m pretty sure everyone else is going to know who he is by the end of the 3rd round if not the 4th.

As the minutes went by more and more people arrived. All of a sudden, the stands were almost full; the lines were back and all was right and proper. The grandstand marshals started telling people to fill up spaces because a lot of people would be showing up shortly. Phil was getting close.

14 is a par 3 across a road and up a pretty steep hill. I can see people are just everywhere over there. As the group playing in front gets to 15 you wait for the noise. A small roar for the tee shot. Must not be close. By the time they get to the green you hear either roar and raucous shouting (birdie) or roar and groan. This time – a groan. A big, huge cheer as Phil arrives at the tee. People are everywhere. As soon as he leaves so do half the fans to follow him. Always makes me feel badly for those that follow.

A couple of hours later, we go through the same scenario, including the groan from 14, for Tiger. Phil may be the darling of the New Yorkers who want desperately for him to win but the crowd for Tiger was far and away bigger. It was just amazing to look up 15 – a literal sea of human beings. 15 goes up (another bogie for Tiger) and 16 comes right back down to our same grandstand. Tiger misses his relatively short birdie putt. Empty the grandstand! Including me. My shift is over, it is raining and I’m heading out. TV coverage can work for me the rest of the day.

And speaking of the rest of the day…the start of the third round at almost 6 pm. You might not believe this but I’m not old enough to remember a few of the earlier Opens. I sure don’t remember anything like this. Wonder what the players thought. If you had tickets for Thursday, you were SOL. If you had tickets today and were tireless, you saw an amazing day of golf. Half of one wave, all of the other, the course changed, mowed, cups relocated, sun, rain and three or four holes of the third round. You can go home and tell a great story that may have never been told before. Were I Ryan Seacrest I would say – THIS is the US Open!

Ricky Barnes shot an Open two-day record 8 under par – 132. Congratulations! Josh Brock (even more unknown than Ricky Barnes) who I am certain started with week with the same hope and desire to win the Open shot a 162. 30 strokes – perhaps many of them under 3 feet or 3 inches – the difference between hero and last place. Much better luck next time to those who went home tonight. I can’t help but wonder how much guys like Tiger and Perry and Cabrera who need multiple miracles to contend much less win wish they on their way to a warm, dry home.

By the way, it is pouring rain once again and they are expecting one to two inches. Anyone’s guess if we go tomorrow morning. Till tomorrow night when we may or may not have a US Open winner – a good night.

Live from the US Open - Bethpage June 19, 2009

Shoes…the subject of the day. Golf is secondary.

There were torrential rains yesterday. Today Bethpage Black, in particular the places where players were not, was a mud hole. Truth be told, the people who are responsible for the course are miracle workers. The course itself was in unbelievable shape after yesterday’s weather.

That said, what shoes would YOU wear if you were attending the US Open today? The vast majority wore some sort of athletic/tennis shoe. Those people including us get a C+. The really, really smart people wore boots that are made for mucking horse stalls. They looked a bit silly but einsteinien nonetheless. I know that is not a word but it looks really cool. Those people get an A+ for being very, very smart. And guess what? Every single person wearing boots was a woman!

Then there are the total failures – an F- for them. There were a lot of people who wore sandals, flip-flops and the like. The people were sinking up to 5 inches into the mud. What on earth were they thinking when they got dressed this morning? About a day at the beach in Hawaii apparently. And some of those sandals were really, really nice leather…too bad.
If you had the sense to wear sensible shoes, you still had an amazing mess to walk around if at all possible. When we left this afternoon they had put straw out on the walk paths to the buses…wonder what they were doing this morning.


Weather looks really dicey the next two days… no one knows what is going to happen. Today was really nice – sunny, very warm with fluffy clouds…a perfect day.

What to say about the golf?

• Where did Tiger go the last four holes this morning? His body hung around but his mind went shopping. Hope it was worth it because he is seriously behind the 8-ball.
• And his playing partners – Harrington and Cabrera – same or worse. So much for the major winners. (don’t count them out quite yet)
• Phil the Thrill had it going for awhile – I hope he gets the mojo back tomorrow. He is still in good shape
• Where did Lucas Glover come from? Wasn’t he on the last President’s Cup team? He was also at the little Italian restaurant where we had dinner tonight.
• Mike Weir was scary good – without that double he would have finished at -8! What a great round.
• Rocco – he’s hanging around – wouldn’t that be special if he could pull it off this year? The crowd is really behind him – chants of “Rocco, Rocco” are everywhere he goes. Brought forward from last year at Torrey Pines.
• Nick Taylor – amateur from University of WA and British Columbia…you go Nick! Great job!
• And who is Azuma Yano? Who cares? He's two under!
• And David Duval -- what an amazing showing he is having. He’s had his share of physical problems along with his wife’s medical problems…the best to him!

No one knows what will happen after tomorrow – assuming the the first two rounds are completed. Don’t count any of the usual suspects out but at the moment, it looks like anyone can win. That is the cool thing about the US Open - anyone can win.

It is time to say goodnight and go to bed…the 6 a.m. shift awaits. Whose idea was that? Not mine but I had no say. Have to leave at 5 so off to dreamland…let’s hope the weather behaves itself. Sweet dreams...

Live from the US Open - Bethpage June 18, 2009

CAN YOU SAY RAIN?

Rain is a nice word for today's mini-monsoon here at Bethpage. Noah would have been right at home here on Long Island...good thing he got the animals way back when. Unfortunately they probably all drowned this afternoon. I'm sure you saw the TV photos of the Black which needs to be renamed Black Lake. It has rained here in NY all but three of the last 30 days (in Seattle we have had 29 days WITHOUT rain) so the course was already really wet. With today's 2" +, it is now just obscenely soaked.

When watching, see if you can see 1 and 18 which run parallel to one another. One is a steep downhill and 18 is a steep uphill to the green. The walking (crowd) paths on all sides were already wet, muddy and slippery the other day. There simply is no way in my opinion they will be walkable tomorrow. On 18, if you are not in the grandstand, you might not be there at all. Just too bad for all. Then again, these USGA guys and greenskeepers do create miracles.

It did occur to me the other day that kids would have a stellar time around the course because it could be a slip 'n slide extraordinaire. I remember what a couple of my backyards looked like years ago.

So, hoping for clear weather but forecast is showers tomorrow, rain again Saturday, showers again through Tuesday. Clearly, it could go to Monday. I think it might be to go back to years past when the final 36 were always on Sunday. That would separate the men from the boys don't you think?

Random thoughts...

• What on earth is wrong with Padraig Harrington?
• Who chooses Henrik Stenson's wardrobe? Those pants! See photo at right.
• Bob Costas is a terrific announcer of all manner of sports. He is arguably quite a small man which is okay. Why would NBC choose to sit him in this Renaissance-looking chair that made him look like a little boy in a suit? Good grief!
• Is it normal operating procedure? Looking for a better tip? But in every place where we had been out to eat, at least one drink has been missing from our tab. This never happens to us anywhere else we go.

NEW WEATHER ALERT -- Dry and maybe some sun tomorrow :) Rain again Saturday :( Showers and dry on the final Sunday := and maybe Monday. Might be a good thing we are returning Tuesday.

• The local restaurants have been great – including the $.10 wings the other night. Okay, okay, it is New York but it's not the City. Everyone we ask has a recommendation on where to eat which is good. Always want local input...anyone out there have a great suggestion? Post a comment or email me.
• I wouldn't wish Phil Mickelson's situation on my worst enemy. He needs to be here for himself and he needs to be here for Amy. That is what she wants. And the fans here just adore him and Amy's health just makes them love him more. They want to be supportive but I wonder as they yell out their support of Amy hundreds of times a day if that doesn't just make matters worse for him. When we followed him yesterday we were pretty close several times and we could see the stress and the guarded smile for the fans. I may not be his greatest fan but I give him major props for putting himself through this. He didn't have to. But I think he needed to be here for his fans. What a gift to all should he pull it off this weekend!
• There is not a single set of ladies' rain gear left on all of Long Island. I know. I looked.
• Chi Chi Rodgriguez checked into our hotel this afternoon. How fun is that? Hope to catch a glimpse and maybe get a photo op. Got his autograph 2 years ago...seems like a very nice man.
• I hope one of the amateurs or club pros pops up and does really well...would make it exciting. Nick Taylor, WA Huskie, would be a great choice. Seems like a very nice young man.
• Missing playing golf - our season isn't long enough and here I am in the rain. I know, I know...don't even think it :)
• Just watched the replay of Torrey Pines Saturday when Tiger went off the charts...wonder when there will be another three days to equal Saturday, Sunday and Monday 2008.
• Part of me - ever the Tiger fan - still wishes Rocco had pulled it off. Go get it this year Rocco!
• That said, today’s replay coverage which I saw numerous times, was pretty much all Tiger. When Tiger is playing I want to see his play. BUT! I also want to see other players – lots of them. I will give ESPN and NBC that there wasn’t much else going on but still…

I have babbled on long enough - gosh I get to go to bed early tonight since my blog is done. Wish it weren't so. Hopefully there will be all kinds of fun things to talk about tomorrow night. Till then...have a good one.

Live from the US Open - Bethpage June 17, 2009

Me and my trophy - I let him hold it!

Happy Birthday to my dear sister, Pam who is celebrating 29 - once again!

Wednesday...last day of practice...twice as many on site. The weekend will be over the top with people and noise. Let's hope the rain comes and goes quickly.

Bethpage is quite hilly...TV and I cannot possibly do it justice. It and its sister courses are beautiful and perfect. New Yorkers are pretty darn lucky to have five such amazing courses. One day I want to bring my clubs and play a couple of rounds. Just so you know, word is you have to prove you are a 15 or under to play the Black. Not bad reasoning I'm thinking. Carts are not allowed. I have a long way to go to be able to tee off on Black.

So, here's the deal. Good weather - long with scary greens. Bad weather - stupid long...not sure about how the greens will hold. They might be able to shoot for the pins but it might be with their third shots on par fours. Balls will likely die in the fairways if it really rains tonight/tomorrow. Some par fours - #7 - 525 yards, #10 - 508 yards, #12 - 504 yards. Three of the four par 3s are over 200 yards. #13 - 605 yard par 5...today it was into the wind. Second shots were about 360. Needless to say - no one went for it. 7,426 yards is a long walk and if you get into the long grass - see the picture - you will be very lucky to find the ball. Today Quiros hit into the grass next to the green right where the marshall was standing - never found it. Okay, enough depressing stuff :)

Tiger and Phil both were in view today. Tiger did not play but practiced where were caught him on the driving range. If you see way more people than normal it is either Tiger or Phil. No question. Phil played 18 and we followed him for a few holes. He looks good, the crowd is 100% in his corner. New Yorkers love the man and with Amy's health issues, they are even more vocal with support. It is pretty cool for him. He obviously appreciates it.

As I write about Tiger and Phil it occurs to me that I along with pretty much everyone else put too much emphasis on them. One would think they are the only golfers in the world and that is so far from the truth. There are 140 other men playing this weekend and on any given four days most of them have the talent to win. Will they? Probably not. As usual with US Opens one of two things will happen...one of the usual suspects with the proper credentials will walk away with the trophy - Woods, Mickelson, Furyk, Ogilvie, Cabrera, Singh, Els. Or, someone will pull an Orville Moody or Andy North and come out of the ether to steal the prize not to be really heard from again. Only time will tell how the story will be told but I'm excited to find out how it ends.

Trivia - what letter of the alphabet has the most players (last names)? Not surprisingly - 'S' with 19. Next is 'M' with 16. Letters not represented - 'U', 'X' and 'Z."

So it is late and time to go. Lots more to come - look at all I've said and nothing has really happened as yet. Unfortunately, no more cameras and that's a bummer. But have a few more good photos in the next day or so. Thanks, as always for checking in with me.

PS - here's shout out to my new best friends, Jimmy and Marty from tailgating yesterday. Ran into them again today which is really amazing. They and their friends really appreciated yesterday's blog with their picture. Hope to see you two again - we'll yell up to UBS this weekend to see if you are there.

PPS - Joy pointed out to me that yesterday's post about our tailgating party perhaps made it sound like we were driving disabled people around right after...not the case - we worked the late shift which was hours later...no US Open DUIs for us...thanks Joy for letting me know.

Live from the US Open - Bethpage June 16, 2009

New Yorkers are the bomb!!!

So I went to the US Open this morning and a tailgate party broke out! It is, um, prior to noon shall we say? We drive into our parking lot and this black Lincoln Navigator is next to us with 7 guys standing behind it. As soon as we got out of the car, they wanted to know if we wanted a shot. I personally had not even gotten out of the car and someone who shall remain nameless had already joined in the fun. These guys - Jim, Martin, Carl, "Cocks" and 3 other fine gentlemen - made us feel right at home. They had beer, wine, Bushmills Black...what IS this world coming to? A party, obviously...

I, of course, rarely drink :) but I don't do shots of whiskey or drink beer outside of Lake of the Ozarks prior to noon anyway. Somehow I managed to do both - hadn't eaten a real meal since Sunday evening - and was still sober. Maybe eating is overrated. Anyway, to our buddies with the Navigator - thanks for the memories - it was a blast!

Now, where was I? Oh yes - at the US Open. I digressed...

Lots going on - took a walk. A very long, long, long walk. Bethpage Black is one of those courses that goes out 9 and in 9. You find yourself out at 9 and remember you have to walk all the way back. There are three par 4s over 500 yards! One of the par 4s is longer than one of the par 5s! Who designed this course I want to know - the Marquis de Sade? By Sunday afternoon there will be many a pro who will attest to that and probably in his own blood.

Example - #5. Par four slight dog leg left. If you do not place your tee shot to the right hand side of the fair in EXACTLY the right place, one of two things happens. You can't see the green if you are left - even in the fairway. Or, if you a just a teensy, weensy bit short right, you are in the crap and haven't got a chance. The green is highly elevated with major trappage. And this is after one of the longest par 5s I've seen with fairway bunkers that are certain death. The interesting thing is that men make it their life's goal to come to this tournament. Craziness!

Who did we see today? Vijay and Rocco on the range - Cabrera, Zach Johnson, Paddy, Soren Hansen on the fairways. At dinner at a cool pasta place - Zach was sitting at the table next to us. Only to find out after they left that Nick Taylor was with them. Nick is a WA Huskie and would have been fun to say hi. Didn't see a lot on the course because we had been delayed in the morning - had to high tail back to our actual jobs.

Actual job is with Disabled Services which means we drive folks who have physical issues back and forth. Might not sound too exciting but let me tell you...there were so many wonderful people with physical problems that would have kept most people at home who got themselves out to the course, into motorized wheels chairs or had DS drive them to handicapped viewing areas, it was amazing. (sorry Pam - bad sentence but too tired to figure it out:)

There were younger folks that had had strokes, older folks well into their 80s that could barely walk who came out to watch...well it makes one think. Hard. We who walk around each and every day without a thought to just how lucky we are to see, hear, walk, live. We take so much for granted. Doing this "job" is fantastic...having the ability to give back just a little bit is worth every moment, every penny spent. Next time you have the opportunity to assist a disabled person - in any way - do it. It will make you happy. It will bring a smile to both your faces. It will bring you back to the reality of just how lucky you are.

Another fabulous day at the Open is in the books and the blog. Weather was cool with late sun. Some sun tomorrow and rain scheduled for all four days of play. Hoping that does not happen but it is looking ominous. If I am a pro - don't know which I want. If it is hot and dry the greens will be stupid fast. If it rains, balls will drop and stay put which will make these unbelievably long holes even longer. It is definitely possible that some will have to lay up on par 4s. That will be a sight!

A wonderful evening to all...til tomorrow...good night.

Live from the US Open - Bethpage June 15, 2009

Hello New Yawk!

So that is the first thing that hits one here on LonG (with a hard ‘G’) Island…the accents along with the decibel level. Welcome to New York!

Last night we arrived at NY La Guardia airport – does anyone remember Firoella La Guardia? Anyway, our hotel was in Flushing/Queens. Had a fantastic Thai dinner at the Green Papaya. It was pretty amazing to walk around Queens and realize we were the only Caucasians in sight. The people that spoke English did not do it well. Easily could have been in Hong Kong or Tokyo. We are still the melting pot of the world without a doubt.

This is the first time I have been at the Open on a Monday. It was pretty quiet truth be told. We arrived at a gate at the 15th hole…15 reminds me a lot of 13 at Torrey Pines. Long and a HUGE elevation to the green. Once again scoped a grandstand to hang at when not working which avails a view of 16, 17 and 18. Getting a seat on the top row of that bleacher will be a test of wills that is for sure.

Tomorrow is walk the course day before shift at 3. Will give me a better insight to the course to talk about. This is what I know from today …. The fairways are like walking on a new carpet. Absolutely unbelievable that this is a FAIRWAY! Most greens are not in this condition. (Please keep in mind that this is a public course that residents play for $50. There are six courses at Bethpage – Red, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange (I think) and of course, Black) Doubtless I will not be able to put these dainty little feet on a real green so I will not be able to attest to their wonderfulness – but the fairways – oh my goodness! Truly amazing.

That said – let us discuss the rough. The cut – can’t really call it first and second – is graduated. You really don’t notice that it is rather short at the fairway and suddenly it if 5 inches deep. And if you are there – you are one lucky golfer because next to that is 3’ of fescue. The chances of finding your ball are minimal. The chances of hitting it out of there are slim, none and fat! That fact that thousands of men try to qualify for this punishment is amazing.

The weather is apparently going to be a bit dicey. One would think we were in Seattle! It should be hot and humid and it is in the 60s and 70s and will rain most days. Hopefully no day of competition will be rained out. With rain – softer greens. Could be low scores. Who knows? Still two days until competition.

There were many players out practicing today. No - no Tiger. No Phil. But Paddy and Sean and Steve and lots of qualifiers dreaming the dream. This is IT – the big show for many of these pros and a few amateurs. We’ll try to keep watch on them as well as the usual suspects. Who knows? Maybe there will be a big surprise.

Still trying to recover from jetlag…off to dreamland…more again tomorrow.

Introducing "At the US Open Blog"

Dear Friends and Family,

It is US Open time once again – I’m pretty sure I am more excited about it than anyone. Bethpage – nutty New Yorkers everywhere!!!

We are off tomorrow to NY and once again you can indulge me and read my meanderings at your leisure. Some of you crazy people seem to truly enjoy it – who knew two years ago when I did this US Open thing on a lark.

To make it easier for everyone – especially me! - I have started a blog – see below. This way you can check it out anytime and I don’t have to worry about getting emails to go out of the hotel. Remember there have been issues in the past. I can also post pictures which I can take before things really get underway on Thursday.

So, if it suits your fancy, make the blog one of your favorites. Look for the first post Monday night or Tuesday morning depending on how much of a night owl you are.

Thanks for all your support – Go Tiger! Okay, may the best man win!!!

www.attheusopen.blogspot.com

Live from the US Open - Torrey Pines - June 15, 2008

My friends, the US Open 2008 is in the books and I do believe that it will be written about by those more qualified than I for many years to come. Tiger Woods has created some of the most memorable moments in golf and in all of sport over the last decade or so. When he says this one was the best, we cannot help but agree.

Rocco Mediate. What can be said about a man who has struggled so long with health issues who comes back and challenges Tiger Woods to a draw and almost pulls off the upset of “most of time?” He, from all accounts, is just the nicest man who deserved to have any other golfer in the world as his opponent on Monday while he played the best golf of his life. Rocco Mediate is what golfers aspire to be – a gentleman (or lady) who plays the game with his heart and soul. Years from now I believe that people will remember that Tiger won his 14th major in 2008 at the US Open. Unlike the other 13, they will also remember the man he was one single stroke better than over 91 holes.

The USGA sold 42,500 tickets each of the four days of play. There were between 70 and 150 men playing on those days. On Monday, they sold 24,000 tickets so people could see two men play. To say it was crowded is somewhat of an understatement. I had to decide what I wanted to do because following them meant looking at the back of thousands of heads and not seeing much at all. After watching the 8th green, I decided to bite the bullet and head for the 18th grandstand. I figured, if nothing else, I would see the end of play. (Who knew I should have had my crystal ball tell me to hang at the 7th green?)

I head for the stands – don’t get numero uno seat of Sunday but still really good – 4th row, right of the pin. I chat up the folks around – happy atmosphere. It needs to be because the game is on the 9th tee! Two hours minimum until we actually see something. I decide I need to eat something and get something to drink. My new buddies hold my seat and off I go. The organizers in all their wisdom have next to no concessions open and the line at the main stand is almost an hour. So I wait for 25 minutes when a volunteer comes along and says that they are closing the grandstand at 18 and if you are not in your saved seat, they will give it to someone else. They are NOT kidding. I do not eat and I do not drink and there are zero water fountains. How I wish I had brought in my volunteer water bottle. Of course, had I been drinking anything, I would have had to use the facilities and I couldn’t do that and I would have been miserable. All worked out well.

So, we are all waiting patiently for Tiger and Rocco to make their way around 8 holes. During this time, a football game broke out. Some gentleman who had no doubt had several meetings with cups of beer during the course of the morning decided it was time to organize a wave. Being golf fans, he had a hard time getting them on board. Like, duh! What is a wave? When everyone finally figured out what to do, there was a wave that went around the grandstand, halfway down one side of the 18th fairway, across to the other side and back to the grandstand. I was hoping NBC would show it because it was way cool. I was also hoping it would go one time around when Tiger and Rocco got to the tee. Would have been awesome TV!

People were cheering Rocco, Rocco and then others would come back with Tiger, Tiger! The best was “We will, we will – Rocco!” I doubt he heard that. I hope someone told him how the crowd was with him almost 100%. I wish they could have tied.

We all know that Tiger pulled another magic trick and it was again amazing to watch in person. Even though I truly saw one hole of the 18th hole playoff of the US Open, it was well worth the time. It was an electric atmosphere and regardless of who you wished to win, you knew you were witnessing something very special. Tiger was very humble and he was truly thrilled to take his little girl into his arms. It was quite something. Rocco gave him all the room to accept the accolades before he walked on the green. He received the ovation he deserved and I hope he knows and remembers how loved he was these five days.

I am back home and a little sad to have such an experience come to an end. I am truly blessed to have the opportunity to have attended the Open two years in a row. I will be going to Bethpage next year as well. I can’t believe how lucky I am.

Last year when I wrote Live for the first time I think it was as much for me as for you. It was a way for me to remember the moments and share with you as well. Sometimes as I write I worry that I will be boring you to death because I really just write about what I see and feel and in some cases, what I think. I have received so many responses from you with words of encouragement and appreciation. Thank you so much.

Until next year or perhaps from the Ryder Cup (an I lucky or what?), keep your head down.

Mel

Live from the US Open - Torrey Pines - June 14, 2008

It is the third Sunday afternoon in June – Father’s Day – the 18th Green at the US Open Torrey Pines – Rocco Mediate playing just impeccable golf against all odds – Tiger Woods trying to win his 14th major with a bum knee –and I am sitting in the first row of the bleachers on 18 not 70 feet from the pin.

It was a celebration for Rocco because he just won or tied the US Open.

It was a celebration for Tiger because he somehow got around 18 holes on an incredibly sore knee, thrashed around the 18th (and other holes as well) like the rest of the world and then sank the putt that shook Torrey Pines. He just tied or won the US Open.

Tomorrow is another day.

Life just does not get any better than this.

Mel

Live from the US Open - Torrey Pines - June 13, 2008

Moving Day…
Dear heaven – where to begin? Do we LOVE the 13th hole at Torrey Pines? It is THE place to be this week…such craziness is rarely seen.

Tiger? Phil? Rocco? Lee? Getting into the PLAYERS’ hospitality?

Lee Westwood – He seems like a very nice young man and has certainly haunted the US Ryder Cup team for several unhappy sessions. (does anyone else miss Darren Clarke these days?) He apparently has been sick of late. Guess he should be sick more often. I wish him well tomorrow because he certainly will have most of the crowd rooting for Tiger. There are those who would root for anyone other than Tiger and they will be cheering for Lee. May the best man win!

Rocco Mediate – This nice man has been around a long time. He lurks at a lot of majors only to fall back. Kind of like the back nine today. I hope he stays with it tomorrow and has a chance to truly compete for the title. Those in the know say he is as nice as he appears. He’s struggled with injury if memory serves so lots more luck to Rocco.

Phil Mickelson – What to say about Leftie? Another US Open meltdown only this time on Saturday at that now-storied 13th hole. I heard he had a 9 on 13 before…problem is, he was 8 at the time! Phil has unbelievable talent and can do amazing things with a golf club (see the second shot on 13 on Thursday) but something is missing a lot of the time. He said he is just going to have fun out there tomorrow. Damn Gina – that is NOT what the US Open is about. At least PRETEND to us that you are beside yourself, that you are grief-stricken that you are not playing in the final group tomorrow, that you really care…something. Thank you very much.

Tiger Woods – For certain, it takes a heck of a lot more talent than I have to discuss Tiger’s round today. But hey, you aren’t paying for this nonsense, are you? I am not a golf historian and I am too tired to look it up but I do know that not too many players have had two eagles on the back nine on Moving Day at the US Open. Add the chip-in from ankle-deep rough after missing the fairway for birdie and it is, well, mind-blowing. Love him or hate him, you cannot help but love the intensity, the always possible fireworks and the sense of awe that you in the presence of something/someone very special. I don’t know if you watched/paid attention to/saw the Nike commercial with a voice-over from his Dad. When it comes back on again – listen. It explains a lot about the man Tiger is today. Good luck to Tiger tomorrow – need it or not!

Remember when Johnny Miller threw that 63 at Oakmont? And the USGA swore that would never happen again? (Remember Winged Foot?) There is always the chance that someone will do just that tomorrow – wouldn’t that be exciting? Seems unlikely and tomorrow could be a foregone conclusion. But, we never know and that is what keeps us coming back for more. Aren’t we lucky?

I tell you what – there people who think that watching golf is like watching paint dry or that it is a good walk ruined (Mark Twain). Those of you who know me know I follow a lot of sports. I love football, baseball, volleyball, soccer to name a few and heaven knows there is over-the-top excitement in all of them. In my opinion golf can create the greatest moments in sport and can be amazing to watch and experience. This IS, just my opinion and at the moment, it is all that counts J

On the lighter side…what I would give for the profit of just one single hour at the Merchandise Tent. I wonder at times if some of these people actually see any of the golf. They walk into the tournament and go directly to the tent. Then they spend from $6 for a lanyard to hold their ticket (which by the way already has a string on it) to hundreds and hundreds of dollars on other stuff. I am in the Satellite Tent (ready that ¼ the size of the main tent like last year). Then they have all this stuff to walk around with all day or they have to walk over a mile to the main area to check their bags.

I got off my shift at 4:25 (from 11 am) and things were just heating up. The leaders were on the middle of the front 9 and people were leaving in droves. What in the world is up with that? I know most of you would give lots of important body parts for a ticket to the Open and yet these folks are long-gone before the excitement begins. Call me clueless, I just don’t understand.

Tidbit – a manager of one of the food concessions told me her stand did $65,000 on Friday. Now that is a lot of burgers, dogs and beer. See why I would like an hour of merchandise?

I told you yesterday Jeff was going to be at the Players’ Hospitality today. I watched Tiger on the 13th – on TV at the Volunteers’ Tent, I admit. When I got off shift I had to eat and trying to get NEAR the 13th would have been beyond stupid so I got a sandwich, watched the 16th for awhile and headed to a TV so I could be sure to watch the leaders play 13. For good reason, obviously. Then I headed for the “behind the scenes.”

I actually was planning to just check in with Jeff but his Supervisor, Brillo, took me into the Players’ tent which was pretty cool of him. So, I just sat there and watched the last few holes and watched players like Retief, Andres Romero, Stewart Cink to name a few wander in and out. Have to say, that was pretty cool. Players, their families and guests only get in there. If their caddies try to get in, they are asked to leave. Plain and simple. If anyone, and I mean anyone, other than a player tries to get into the locker room, they are barred. No exceptions. Padraig Harrington’s Dad tried to follow him into the LR and Jeff had to tell him he could not. Not easy. The locker room is the only sanctuary the players have.

This was such an amazing day I could go on and on but I am tired and probably so are you from reading this. Some of you have responded to say that you are enjoying my ramblings and I appreciate that. I am glad that you are enjoying this along with me.

Tomorrow will doubtless bring lots more fun and fireworks. I can’t wait. Just know that I realize how very lucky and blessed I am to be here and have this experience. Maybe that is why I started doing this last year…I just want to share my good luck with my friends and family.

Till tomorrow – Happy Father’s Day to all you dads out there.

Mel

Live from the US Open - Torrey Pines - June 13, 2008

If you like exciting golf – today was your day. You know I am a Tiger fan but even if one is not, it has to be admitted the man can light it up. That was some display of putting. If that keeps up, everyone else may as well hit the road. That being said, a reliable source said the greens are to be double-cut and rolled tonight. We have already seen some downhill putts roll by the hole and balls that won’t stay on the greens. The USGA goal – think bowling alley or ice skating rink - only with an incline. It could be great fun to watch but a test of a player’s soul.

For me yesterday was a day to watch some players I have barely or never heard of. You know, the guys that tee off in the first and last three groups that few people but their parents and best buds care about. Doubtless all had to go through qualifying. They are the toast of their home courses and can beat anyone who comes along. Off to the Open they go with the singular hope of being the one guy in a hundred years that can create the miracle four days.

It has to be a humbling experience to go from being a plus player to shooting a pair of 80s or worse. Yet watching many of them yesterday, it doesn’t seem to faze them. They are sponges soaking up the amazing energy that is the US Open and learning from their experiences. I am certain that in a couple of years I will instantly recognize some of the young guys because they will become their dreams. For the older guys who qualified and some young guys as well, this week this was their dream. And although they are headed back home, they just had the experiences of a lifetime.

Got to go behind the scenes a bit today and visit the Caddie hospitality…not much more than our volunteer one. They have cooler massage and chiropractors and in the am I am having this crazy Endomologie (sp?) treatment. This is great fun.

Tomorrow is moving day. Always exciting. Wish that Phil was right in the mix. Hopefully he will have a great day tomorrow.
This is a little short but was out late having some fun with Joy, Beth and Deb. Great to see my kids and sister.

Till tomorrow – nighty night…

Mel

Live from the US Open - Torrey Pines - June 12, 2008

Hello again from Torrey Pines…

The race is finally on and an interesting day it was. If the USGA was looking to create a logistical nightmare, they succeeded. Pairing Tiger and Phil together made great TV but it was pretty ridiculous on the ground. The hoards of people following a single threesome were amazing. If you have/had small children who played soccer at 5, you know that 20 players run around like a little beehive after the ball and the two goalies stand in the nets. Well, that is if the goalies stayed put. Watching the crowd move in one mass from hole to hole was pretty amazing. 90% of them couldn’t see much of anything but hey, they all can say they followed Phil and Tiger at the US Open.

We headed straight for the 13th hole grandstand to wait for the action. From there I could see 11 tee and green (par 3) and all of 13 where there was some pretty crazy stuff going on. The stand was already filled to capacity when we arrived but we squeezed in. Finally got to the second to top row so we could stand and see behind us (11) as well as 13 in front of us.

13 is a reachable Par 5. There is a huge gully in the front of the green that is quite literally 40 to 50’ below the green. TV cannot do it justice. Anyway, Phil hit easily the shot of the day out of deep rough to have a putt for eagle. Tiger has a primo drive, is short and rolls all the way down into the gully. He is HOT. Then he blades a wedge over the green. Now he is really hot. His chip out of the rough is 8 – 10 feet short. He rolls that in for par. This is the second hole he has been short – cost him a bird. On one it cost him a double and on the next hole, another double. Perhaps the rust is showing.

Once the gruesome twosome got done, the course evened out and it was easy to get around and see lots of players. This is a good thing. Many lesser knowns had terrific days which is good. This brings me to my thought of the day.

I wonder where the next Tiger Woods or Phil Mickelson is. We have been watching them go after it for 12 years with Tiger arguably winning the contest. When I grew up there were three – Arnie, Jack, Gary. Add the 4th in Tom Watson and the 5th in Lee Trevino for awhile. There are some truly terrific other players out there but they just don’t/can’t capture of the magic of these aforementioned guys. Tiger is still pretty young – 32 – but the young guys need to kick it up a notch (thanks Emeril).

As for my, I am still ensconced in the Merchandise Tent – the smaller one. It was crazy busy today. I can tell you there is no recession in the golf world as yet. I would venture a guess that at least 90% of the attendees had a bag in hand. Many had two and three. What is even more amazing is all the men shopping. We all know most men hate to shop. But, put them in a place that is filled to the brim with awesome golf clothes, towels, trinkets and logo-ed golf balls and it is Christmas Day. Even the male volunteers have commented how fun it is to see the men shopping.

Note to self: Get some shoes that fit. I wore the same shoes last year – no problems. Tonight I have three blisters on one foot. Do shoes just give up? How does this happen?

Note to self: Smart to bring the binoculars. Next time bring the strap so as not to carry the damn things all day long.

Most of you don’t know that Jeff came with this year. He couldn’t get a volunteer gig but he got hired to work for the security firm. Hey, he doesn’t have to buy a uniform, gets a parking pass and lunch and he gets paid. $8 whole dollars an hour. Now he could have been out in BFE watching grass grow. But, no. Yesterday he gets the caddie parking lot. Today he gets the caddie hospitality room where there is food, massage and who knows what all. We had to go to WalMart to buy white dress shirts because tomorrow he gets the players hospitality – sport coat, tie – the whole 9 yards. At least they provide the coat and tie. So, while he is hobnobbing with the players, I’m schlepping merchandise and I have to walk over a mile to get back to the shuttle we take for security. What is wrong with this picture now I ask you? Some folks just live right.

It is time to close – the bed is looking really good at the moment. Tomorrow should be a great day. Hang tight – more to come.

Mel

Live from the US Open - Torry Pines - June 11, 2008

Good Evening…

First of all, some of you perhaps received multiple sends of Live I. If so, apologies. If you did not receive Live I and would like to, please respond and I will send it off. Apparently some of my contacts had invalid addresses even though the addresses were there in Outlook…sometimes I think Microsoft just does not like me.

Second, some emails had the horror of horrors – the misspelling of “Torrey Pines.” Many of you know that I am totally A-Retentive when it comes to spelling and grammar so for this to escape my computer is tantamount to heresy. Apologies for messing up my first tribute to Torrey Pines.

So, the last day of practice is over and we anticipate the opening shots early in the a.m. I doubt we will be in attendance for that but soon after for sure. I would like to see the mob scene that will accompany each and every practice swing, grass blade toss, actual shot, etc. that will be part of the craziness the USGA has wrought upon us with the Tiger and Phil pairing. All 42,500 ticket holders will doubtless be on the first tee tomorrow around 8. I feel very sorry for Adam Scott that he is caught up in this circus. But, he will be a better player for it. Won’t he? If not, he can blame it on his recently broken pinkie.

There was actually a Tiger-sighting today on the driving range. Saw exactly ONE swing and he was done. Off to the Presidential Suite at the Lodge no doubt. (Jerry, still had that perfect “V” of perspiration down his back – how does he do that?) Got some pics of Phil on the putting green, got Andreas Romero’s autograph and am thoroughly annoyed with Angel Cabrera for blowing off his afternoon stroll around the back 9.

If you wonder what it is like to be a professional athlete, in particular professional golfer and really in particular, Tiger Woods, imagine this. You are at work – emailing, talking on the phone, meeting with the boss – whatever it is that you do. And while you are doing this there are thousands of people watching you. There are hundreds of people taking pictures of you. Each and every person within a quarter mile wants to see you, touch you, talk with you, and obtain your autograph while you are trying to work. There may be a few of us who regularly go up against the very, very best competition day in and day out but not many. Not only that, each of them are working double time to take us out – beat us at our own game. This scenario does not just apply to Tiger but to many others as well…he just has it more than most.

Today I watched Zach Johnson for a couple of holes. Remember that pictures and autographs are only allowed on practice days. So between tees and greens, players give autographs if they wish. Zach at one point pleaded with the crowd that he just cannot get to everyone and sign everything. We think these guys live lives we might like to live and in some ways that may be true. But as with all success, there is a price. These guys pay a high price for fame and fortune and work very hard while they are at it.

Tomorrow is opening day and the USGA has made certain it will be one to remember with the Tiger/Phil pairing. I’m excited to be part of it and consider myself very lucky to be here. Though I try, I do not have the skills to really describe all that well what I see and experience. I wish each of you could be here to enjoy the moment but since you cannot, I am trying my best to make you part of my experience.

Until Live III – it is time for some sleep. Sweet dreams…

Mel

Live from the US Open - Torrey Pines - June 10, 2008

Friends, Dutchman (Arnold) and Countryman – I’m back! Back at the US Open – does it get any better than this? I think not! I am lucky and blessed and my feet hurt like #@%#!!!

So, okay…the weather in Seattle for the last two years would make Noah cringe…the snow level was to be down to 2500’ today and this is June 10 for heaven’s sake. One of my customers told me this morning that he had a fire last evening and it was windy and rainy and others lost power. It is June 10. Another customer who shall remain nameless reminds me of the email we have all seen about the computer support person whose caller’s computer was not working and it wasn’t turned on…that customer called us today. 911…it’s real folks…I digress.

Here I am at Torrey Pines – all 7600 yards of it. Like I said, my feet hurt. It will be very interesting to see how Tiger does on this very, very long course with his knee and all. Oakmont, last year, was pretty compact. Torrey Pines has some long walks between holes. It is down and back, out to the ocean and back several times. It is looooonnnngggg!

Today was June Gloom – onshore Flo – cloudy, cool and very breezy on the holes closest to the ocean. The sun came out around 3 for about an hour. Same forecast for tomorrow – I could be happier. (see paragraph 2) I need sun and warmth because winter will be setting in again as soon as I return on the 16th. You think I am kidding?

Torrey Pines is beautiful and perfect in every way. Narrow fairways and rough that eats the feet of people who stand in it. There are going to be some very, very interesting situations this week. I am certain of that. The man who can hit it straight and not spin it a lot is going to have a good chance. Most of the greens slope back to front…pretty standard for US Opens. But there are a couple of holes that slope so far one wonders how any ball will stay on the greens. Oh, the USGA has decided that the rough isn’t long enough so they are watering it. These people are ruthless and could put any villain to shame.

My visor was very busy today…autographs from Padraig Harrington, Lee Westwood, Kevin Streelman and Nick Taylor (go Huskies) for starters…just missed Ernie and Vijay…maybe tomorrow. I truly am not a big autograph person but you just stand there when they go from hole to hole and they sign. Who knew? Cool.

Again, I work in the Merchandise Tent but this time a Satellite tent which is at the main gate. Things really turned around from last year when the main tent was at the main gate. Could be slow which is good because then I can concentrate on the TV so I can see what is happening a couple of hundred yards from where I will stand.

One of my Notes to Self last year was to bring binoculars. I did this. Smart. I left them in the car today. Dumb. Will not do this tomorrow.

Most interesting observation today…tee to green was normal play. Once players got to the greens, they putted from everywhere, threw balls to see how the greens roll and how far the ball would roll down the slopes if they missed the approach, chipped from all sides, buried balls in the rough to see if they could be gotten to the green and in the case of Luke Donald, made like us. Practicing from a green-side bunker he sculled it over the green almost to the next tee. One typically does not hear “fore” when standing at a green. Pretty funny and nice to know even they can be just like the rest of us.

That’s it for tonight folks…

Mel

Ps – Elena, wish you were here

Live from the US Open - Oakmont - June 17, 2007

Most of you know I am a huge Tiger fan so I am disappointed to say the least. Of course, not nearly as disappointed as he. I could barely hear his interview (I was working) but he was very emotional - more so than I would have thought. I think after last year's debacle he really wanted to win for his Dad's memory and his soon to be first child.

At any rate, it was a terrific day and I guess the best man won. Angel has had a habit of folding in the majors but not this time so good for him. Hated to see young Baddeley have such a horrendous day but surely he will learn from it. I truly think had he not tripled the first hole it may have been a totally different day. Golfers tend to feed off each other and Tiger did not have that luxury with Baddeley getting off to such a bad start. Had they been going head to head, we may have seen a different outcome. Oh well. next year at Torrey Pines.

Arrived at the course by 10 and got myself to the 10th green and planted there until about 1. Sat in the grandstand where there was still quite a bit of room - wanted to get to the top so I could see 9 tee and 1 green. There was plenty of room so I get up there and ask this lady if I could squeeze in. She looks from side to side and says, well, no. Okie dokie smokie...so I sit in front of her. No big deal, I stand up to see what I want to see anyway.

I need to be sure I get across the bridge in order to be on the correct side of the course for my work shift. Oakmont was cut almost in half a long time ago by the interstate - thanks IKE. Can't even imagine how happy the members were about that! The bridge was built recently - perhaps for this tournament. Friday it was a 45 minute wait to get across it. The players have their own bridge which is about 1/3 as wide. Have no idea how they managed this in past Opens. I digress...

So I plant myself at 2 green which is very close to the Merchandise tent where I work. Again, I go to the top where there appears to be plenty of room. Same question, same answer. Seriously, where five people sat, at least eight could have. Unbelievable! I watch all the leaders come through including Tiger and watch him tee off on 3 and off I go to work. #2 is 341 yards - Tiger's tee shot which ended up in the bunker behind the green landed like a rocket pin high on the green. Had that been a fairway, it would have rolled another 50 yards. Just so you know, I also have that shot.

Needless to say, there is not much going on in merchandise but there are some fools in there buying when the Open is winding down. We worker bees basically chatted with each other and watched on th giant screen. By the time Tiger is on 18, the exit area in front of the screen is full of people standing or sitting and watching...keep in mind, there is air conditioning in there. Tiger is lining up his putt on 18 and this MORON comes up to my register to buy something. I just looked at him and wanted to say something totally inappropriate but couldn't because I was totally shocked and it would not have gone over well with the USGA. Why are you here for the US Open if you do not care about one of the most iimportant shots of the entire week? I wanted to slap some sense into him but I waited until Tiger's putt rolled wide right and with it his chance to win Open #3. Then I slapped him silly :)

It was a great tournament and so much fun. Met lots of people from all over and cannot wait until next year at Torrey Pines. Hope you haven't been bored to death with my ramblings because if you don't tell me differently, you will probably receive Live at the US Open Vol 2 beginning June 9, 2008.

Final tidbits...

Every single gas station in the Pittsburh area - the gas is $2.95. And I mean every single one. Is price fixing away of life here? Geez, at least we have Arco and Costco to make life a little different.

I stopped at Starbucks this morning for coffee - okay, it is 9 am on Sunday morning. There are ZERO people there. I am faint...remember I live in Seattle where there haven't been zero people at any Starbucks since - well - never. I do notice that Panera Bread 75 yards away is packed. Is the East coast anti Howard Schultz??? Could be...

It was really hot today and pretty humid. People were trying to get out of the sun and get cool. So, I see this older man on a bench - right out in the bright sunshine pouring a bottle of water down his chest. I'm like, buddy, if you were NOT sitting in the sun, it might help. The shade is 20 yards away...

And the most amazing thing I saw...you know what an enlisted sailor hat looks like, right? And if you pull the brim down it becomes something like a beanie. So, I am having my lunch on the grass watching the golf. Many people are doing the same. There is this guy about 10' in front of me...he's relatively young - say 20s or early 30s tops. Appears to be nice looking dressed in golf shirt and shorts. On his head is the hat described above in bright orange leather! I do a double take and I look for others thinking this might be a fraternity prank or hazing but no...this guy is just there, taking it all in at the US freakin Open with an orange leather beanie on his head. And it is 90 degrees. They're coming to take you away ha ha, hee hee, ha ha....

For those of us that play golf - this was the top, the be all and end all, the cat's pajamas, et all. This course is not describable by my meager abilities. Television does not even begin to do justice to what these players are tasked to overcome. I am a great one for sitting in my chair saying "How could you have missed that?" or "what in the holy hell was THAT about?" Well, I have seen the light and hopefully will never take what they do for granted again. (and I am certain that goes for all sports at this level)

This week these men turned themselves inside out and only one went home with the prize. The exhaustion they must feel tonight has to be overwhelming..hell, I'm exhausted and I never swung a club! Yes, these men are pampered beyong belief (well, most of them) and all that nonsense. But, when the rubber meets the road, they put it out there for all of us to see and enjoy. For a short period of time, we are one with them in their qwest for perfection...to win the ultimate prize. To all of them I say thanks...I am so lucky to have been at the party.

Till next year at Torrey Pines...

Mel

Live from the US Open - Oakmont - June 16, 2007

Today was moving day ... there was a lot of moving - backwards as usual.

Tiger should be leading or tied at the worst. Not the greatest course management the last two holes in my now professional opinion. But, tomorrow should be will either be a shootout because so many are so close or it will end up match play between Tiger and Baddeley or Tiger will blow them all away. Have I covered all the bases? No matter what, it will be exciting.

I saw some crazy people today - who knew that punkers are into golf? Swear to heaven, I saw this girl straight out of KISS. Then there was the guy lying on the grass watching the big screen and honest to god, I thought he had his pajamas on! I had to look twice and I still don't know what in the heck he had on. It takes all kinds...

My working partner Elena is pretty funny - she lives in Oakmont and really doesn't play golf - and you golfers (male) will appreciate her comment that she thought that most of the men she saw were better looking and better dressed than the average guy. She obviously did not see the guy in the pjs. I told her that my husband may not be the best golfer but he sure looks great while he's trying :)

I think the players are very lucky that it has not been warmer - they may be look like they are sweating but it could be so much worse. Not really hot and not very humid. Certainly the volunteers that are outside all the time are happy about that. We in the tent, however, are freezing to death half the time. I think they have the air turned to 55.

Another somewhat interesting thing...when I watch golf on TV and they show a player, I immediately know most of them. When you see them in person, unless it is Tiger, Phil or Ernie, it is really difficult to recognize them. It is just one of those weird things I knew you would want to know.

I haven't seen as much golf as I would have sitting in my chair at home but I would not trade it for the world. I have met so many nice people and the charged atmosphere and excitement of the folks attending is contagious. i would highly recommend the experience to anyone.

Notes:

Going to the Open is like going to Costco - if you see an item you want, get it because it won't be there the next time you go back. You cannot believe the merchandise they move out. I have heard this year has been phenomenal. I also heard that what they do not sell, they destroy. I so hope THAT is not true.

Find something to carry my stuff in that I can hook, clip or paste to my body so I do not have to carry something everywhere I go. May have to ditch the lipstick, allergy medicine, kleenex...but what to do with the car keys? Luckily the credit cards are easy to carry :)

And last, Tiger Woods is amazing. He is simply gorgeous to look at and what a swing. Everything about the man seems perfect including sweat. While most looked like someone had thrown a bucket of water on them, the other day the perspiration on the back of his shirt was perfectly formed in "V's" large to small from top to bottom. I know you needed to know that.

Until tomorrow evening, good night and good luck (Tiger)

Live from the US Open - Oakmont - June 15, 2007

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz -- I'm tired. This volunteer stuff takes a lot out of you. But not complaining to be sure. This is fun!

When I play golf, I hate it when it is slow because I like to play fast.
More than once I have commented - these guys think they are playing the US Open. Well, that is being unkind. There is nothing like watching these guys actually play the US Open. The term "ready golf" is NOT in their vocabulary! I realize this is "end of the world important" but most of the time they have already been waiting for several minutes to hit their shots.
And when it is finally their turn, THEN they begin playing the US Open. It must drive the few guys that like to play at a reasonable pace absolutely nuts. From what I have observed, most of their shots have little or no hope of going anywhere good so they may has well just give it a whack and hope for the best.

It is interesting to see these guys whom you have seen shoot 20 under par unable to break 80. There is a lot of head-shaking going on. It must really play games with their confidence. Bottom line, it is an incredible test of their golf skills, their mental stamina and emotional control.

Have met some nice people - just chatting with whoever is standing next to me on the course or with the volunteers. I mentioned to someone I was talking to that I was going from here to Buffalo for a couple of days and these three guys go - Buffalo! Are you from Buffalo? They were pretty excited so we talked about Buffalo for a little while.

In my first message I said that the cool thing about being a volunteer was being able to get free water? Well that is cool and if it is really hot the next two days, it will be great. But, the REALLY great thing is the volunteers get a real bathroom. Trust me, it matters!

Notes to self:

Don't go to a golf tournament without binoculars When they ask if you want a visor or hat - take the hat.
When it is time to say goodnight - do it.

Good night...

Live from the US Open - Oakmont - June 14, 2007

So, day one is complete. No stupid scoring - low that is - on anyone's part. Most everyone is still alive.

As I sat in the bleachers at the 18th green, I noticed that I heard almost no roars that one expects. Thus, no real fireworks but a lot of "how fast can I get this over with?" As I watched for a good 4 hours from the same place where I could see three tees and two greens, I observed that not one single player spoke to another. Not one! Since I was at 10 tee and half the field went off 10, those players did speak and shake hands but that is the only time. And this is only Thursday!!! This is serious stuff for sure.

The weather was cool and cloudy most of the day and last evening we had great thunderstorms so the course was damp. They do not expect anymore rain so the course will dry out and things will get really crazy.

The 18th green is so amazing - first of all if you do not get the ball up, down it will go - way, way down. Because it was damp today, balls did not run back off the green. They will from now on unless rain comes again. But the incredible hills and valleys - and that is what they look like - on the green you just do not see anywhere else. Today the pin was in this little swale and this was the easy placement. Better them than me ....

After walking not even the whole course today and standing at a cash register for four hours, I am tired. I have a whole new respect for these guys who do this week in and week out. I thought, well they have caddies and are really taken care of and this is true. But, they don't play the same courses we play. While they are not all Open courses, each course is set to be a difficult as it can possibly be. It has to be exhausting for these guys (and gals) especially when it is as important as the Open.

I am still rooting for my autographer, Sean O'Hair. He seems like a really nice young man. I can't tell you how many people asked me who I got to autograph my visor. I didn't really think it was a big deal but so some...well, I guess it is. I hope he does well.

Don't know if this interests you or not - hope so. If not, you know where the delete key is :)

Maryellen

Live from the US Open - Oakmont - June 13, 2007

My first impression of Oakmont is Holy Shit! The talking heads chat endlessly about US Open courses and how they are set up but you have to see one to understand. Oakmont is said to be the toughest golf course in the US US Open or not. I'm told that with few modifications, this is the way the members play it regularly. They are obviously masochists of the highest order.

Oakmont is enormous. I walked it today. I pray for the caddies as it is in the mid 80s and humid. You have to know the hills of Western PA to understand. When Johnny Miller says the green has a 50' elevation, he isn't kidding. You just cannot see it on television.

#12 is 667 yards long and the landing area for drives is 20 yards wide between two bunkers. And the bunkers! They are hopeless. Be sure to see the Church Pew bunkers on 15. They are just crazy.

They (whoever 'they' are) cut down 400 trees to take the course back more to its original design. I hear it was done in the middle of the night so the members wouldn't freak out. Geez, do you think they freaked out in the morning? There is almost no shade which is scary in this weather. I'm glad I can go into the volunteers' hospitality tent to get out of the heat.
It is of course it is what seems like miles from the back nine.

The crowd today was large. There were places you literally could not move through and guess what? The grandstands were almost empty! I cannot even imagine what it will be like this weekend. They are having a golf

Phil Mickelson seemed to follow me all over the course today That was weird. Every time I turned around, he was on the hole I was at. I wonder what Arnold Palmer thinks about Phil and his 'swing coach' and his 'short game coach' entourage. Reminded me of Mike Tyson. Dave Pelz, the short guy, carried this little suitcase around all day with their very own version
of the stimp meter and they measured the greens from all directions. Like
that is going to help. Today the greens were about 11 and this weekend they will be 13 to 13.5. It is like putting on your windshield. And it rained last evening. There were huge thunderstorms this evening as well and the temperature dropped 20 degrees. They say that is the end of the rain for the week. Poor guys there will be screaming and heads beaten against walls by the end of the week.

My job is cashier. The merchandise tent is 36,000 square feet - that's Right, 36,000! It is huge. Stuff is not stupidly priced which is good and it is air conditioned. I'm happy. At 4 pm when three of my shifts are, it will be hot and humid! The good news is volunteers get to bring in a USGA issued water bottle. Doesn't sound like much but with little shade and the heat, you could spend a month's salary on water over the four days.

Tiger was absent today - didn't hear anyone say they had seen him.
Feel badly for the guys playing along side guys like Phil or Tiger - they are totally invisible to the vast majority of the gallery.

Heard Michael Jordan is on site.

It is amazing what people in the gallery say.

Got Sean O'Hair's autograph on my visor so doubtless, he is going to win :)

Gotta hit it - long, hot day tomorrow.

Mel

Maryellen Korn