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Ideal First Tee
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© Taku Miyamota/TM Photolinks
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By
Geoff Shackelford
The most famous first tees are defined by some form of grandeur—a sweeping view
of the course and fairway below, or some distinctly original setting. Most of
the revered first tees are small and elevated, sitting close to the clubhouse.
While that may make them functional and dramatic, such intimacy often proves
just a bit too quaint due to the noise and pressure that add to an already
stressful event: the opening tee shot.
We’ve all heard stories of golfers
overcoming stage fright to strike opening tee shots against the backdrop of
clanking dishes and lunchtime chatter at Merion. Or consider the highly visible,
stage-like setting of the first tee boxes at Southern Hills Country Club, Riviera Country Club or Bethpage State Park’s Black course. Each is located high
above the fairway, providing a dramatic scene that attracts a sizeable audience
of passers-by and curious onlookers at these busy facilities.
Crowds detract.
That’s why the model starting box is set slightly away from the commotion.
Sometimes the tee is even part of the practice putting green, or even better, a
small green is cut into the tee to allow for a few final putts as you wait for
your group to assemble.
Preferred is the subdued beginning at the least
subdued of courses, Pine Valley Golf Club. As at Winged Foot (pictured), there is a simple
tee resting low to the surrounding ground, away from the clubhouse activity. But
never so far to rule out a quick run back to the locker room for a forgotten
sweater.Next: Ideal Halfway House
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George Peper:
Lost Treasure
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 By
George Peper
The author makes a plea for the return of a special book that was misplaced 20 years ago at another milestone celebration
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