Big Break Mesquite

[wolverine318]

I do enjoy the format of the competition I was referring to the level of play. The show used to be a reality show that sort of included your run of the mill player, there was a far greater mix in past seasons. This season is stacked and although that was their intention it just takes a small bit away from the show.

I agree to a point but I also think the golf channel has done a good job of making all the shows different. From men to women to mixed to Trump to now more accomplished players. So I dont really mind it this season as long as they dont make this the norm.

[iacas]

But I do remember a couple times someone saying how the ball goes farther there because of the thinner air. I dont know the elevation of Mesquite compared to sea level but I'm sure it has an effect and is making these guys hit the ball further than they normally do.

Elevation: 1608 feet

Plus, the air is thinner because it's hot and not very humid. So that helps too. Personally, I think it'd be tough to go on the show and play in conditions where my club selection was off by 10% or 15% or whatever. I'm used to playing at 700 feet above sea level and usually in fairly thick air. If I suddenly gained 12 yards on my 7-iron it'd take me several shows just to adjust. I hope they were given a long day of playing on the range and on the course(s) to try to adjust.

[Klew]

I vaguely remember one of the contestants saying they had a week to practice before episode one. i.e., when Brian (I think) was talking about the elimination between Kevin and Benoit, he something to the affect, "It's awkward seeing (Benoit)Wah and Kevin going at it in an elimination since they have been the 2 who have grown closest this last week..."

When it's hot I love using a ball like Callaway HX Hot to see how far it goes....as for stopping on the green..fuhgettaboutit

[Jeepthrills]

I do enjoy the format of the competition I was referring to the level of play. The show used to be a reality show that sort of included your run of the mill player, there was a far greater mix in past seasons. This season is stacked and although that was their intention it just takes a small bit away from the show.

I like the fact that these are the "best" players yet. They are playing for a spot in a PGA Tour event. I want to see the best players go at it. I would love to see this with guys who are between 126-135 on the money list and have them play for full status on tour next year.

[TourSpoon]

OK, I have to admit that I am now watching the Big Break. In fact, I am looking forward to 10 pm tonight.

The altitude/thin air deal is real. Having played at sea level in the humid South Florida region I remember playing in the desert in Arizona. That was worth about 5-10% more length. It took a little getting used to. I would think that at their skill level they could figure it out quickly.

[Ben]

I want to see the best players go at it. I would love to see this with guys who are between 126-135 on the money list and have them play for full status on tour next year.

I like that idea!

[Clubswinger21]

Was looking for this thread in the 'golf talk forum' hence its not really tour talk.

Anyways this is by far the best big break yet. Definetely seen alot more talent then past years. The best thing about the show is they're actually playing golf, not just stupid little games.. which was my biggest gripe with past seasons.

I agree with Iacas on the whole Matt E. thing. Everyones biggin him up and saying how he's clutch in pressure situations then i watched the guy miss a green from 140 yrds like 3 times in a row?! Further more, he stands up on every shot, swing looks awful----> and produces awful results. Thats what I took from watching him play.

Obviously Hiroshi and Anthony are the favorites now. Id look for that Aussie guy to do well and Josh as a sleeper.. the guys got the least experience but his swing looks better then most of the guys on the show.

[sonicblue]

I don't know, I think Anthony is too much in his own head, and it will hurt him eventually. Mark, Kevin and Gerry are the bottom rung, IMO. Though talented, they're just not playing well. Obviously, Hiroshi is the smart favorite, but I think James is the real one to beat. I like his attitude, seems to have solid overall game. Josh's attitude is awesome but I'd have to think his lack of competitive experience will do him in.

[phillygolfer]

Its getting better but The first one was still the best. Anyone find it weird that they dont even have video of them where they are staying this season. But I like Josh gotta cheer the underdog

[golf_junkie27]

The best thing about this show is watching the players' club choice. It's refreshing to watch golf on TV and see guys using short irons for reasonable distances. I saw Hiroshi take an 8I from 163, another take a GW from 120, etc. For once, I don't have to see a guy take a 7I from just off the fringe and stick it from 190 yards away. Am I the only one who feels this way? Does anyone think the announcers are embellishing on club choice?

[gogolfing]

I'm enjoying the show and the new format. As already pointed out, a guy can have a bad day and not necessarily get knocked out.

Anyone else think the co-host with Stephanie Sparks is a knob? The guy has nothing much to say, and when he does it's like he's trying to be Barry White out there with his best DJ voice. Bring back Vince! Come to think of it, haven't seen Vince Cellini on TGC in a while. Is he still there?

[tmoult]

i enjoy watching this show, i like the aussy dude.

[Finn07]

I believe Vince Cellini is no longer with TGC.

[gogolfing]

I believe Vince Cellini is no longer with TGC.

You're right; I found a Golfworld index on the web that had it listed that he left, but there was no link to the story to see where he went. He also isn't listed on TGC's website anymore.

To get back to the Big Break, anyone have any thoughts on the new host? As I've said before, I'm not a fan.

[wolverine318]

You're right; I found a Golfworld index on the web that had it listed that he left, but there was no link to the story to see where he went. He also isn't listed on TGC's website anymore.

I dont like the new guy. He doesnt seem like the right fit for some reason. I cant put my finger no it though.

[sonicblue]

The problem with the new guy, is he hasn't done a single thing that displays any golf knowledge. It's like he's just the straight man to Stepanie Sparks.

[ChvyKc]

This is the first year that I have watch Big Break but I don't really like the guy. He just seems like a typical show host. He could be the next guy hosting Survivor, Fear Factor or The Price is Right. Nothing strikes me about him that he should be on TGC hosting anything to do with golf. I would love to know what his handicap is.

[cubfanbob]

> The problem with the new guy, is he hasn't done a single thing that displays any golf knowledge. It's like he's just the straight man to Stepanie Sparks.

In my opinion, this is NO different than Vince Cellini, who never added anything more insightful than "He really needs to make this putt to stay in contention."

Vince was a performer, an announcer - not a golf expert. This guy serves the same purpose. Stephanie does all the analysis, she's the one with a golf background.