Lovin' this year!

[Clambake]

I've got to say, I'm really loving this year in pro golf. Although the year started off with the bizarre ubersensationalized tabloid lunacy and self-inflicted character assassination by the games' #1 player, I feel that the stories since then have made this a wonderful year. Consider:

• Ernie Els back holding trophies again
• The emergence of some of the games young stars, like McElroy, Fowler, Barnes, etc. I love the style and energy they're bringing.
• The re-emergence of one of the game's favorite older stars....Freddy Couples. I could watch him swing and win all day.
• Mickelson claiming another Masters highlighted by a stunning go-for-it shot. Corny as the "Win for the Family" tagline was, the game kind of needed a dose of family values in the wake of Tiger's debacle
• The US Open back at Pebble, and delivering a tough test. And consider that the leaderboard had Tiger, Phil, Ernie, Love, all in the hunt until the end. And Tom Watson, still hanging in there giving us old guys hope. McDowell played fantastically, hitting clutch shot after shot.
• Justin Rose finally stepping up and showing some of the talent that we've been waiting for
• Bubba Watson getting his first win. And although it seemed a little overdone with the tears, I have to admit it was enjoyable seeing someone who is emotional and wanted it so badly
• Paula Creamer claiming the other US Open. Just the type of shot in the arm the LPGA so badly needs
• A fantastic global showing at the British Open at a fantastically historical course, with a great performance by LO to not just hang on but to deliver strong shot after shot. And I loved Oosthuizen winning for RSA on Mandela Day, right after South Africa showed it could host the world's largest sporting event. Nice touch.
• A lot of players seem to be having fun again on the course. Watching McDowell, Oosthuizen, Fowler, and others....they're actually smiling, laughing, and enjoying their way around a tournament. TW please take notice.

I'd love to see one of the kids take the PGA, and cannot wait for the Ryder Cup with such a strong European showing. This is really turning into a fun year!

[holeinon3]

Ernie Els was really fun to see in the beginning of the year, but I definitely need to see Tiger hold a trophy soon.

[jamo]

I'm happy to have seen Jim Furyk win twice. He's one of my favorite guys. Adam Scott too, good to see him win again. Too bad Vijay and Sergio haven't given us much.