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GolfWRX had a chance to catch up with Jody Baucom, President of AccuFLEX.  Most know AccuFlex as the company that makes Long Drive Shafts but, this relatively new shaft company claims to have "A Golf Shaft to Fit Every Swing." Accuflex has also achieved many wins on multiple Tours in a short period of time and has a new product that's turning some heads. See their website for more background info.
G.WRX - Jody, Welcome to GolfWRX.com. Can you give us a little background on Accuflex? When did it start, Who started it, etc. Are their any OEMs that have sourced through private label Accuflex shafts? Jody Baucom - The Concept "popped" into my head in 1999, it took me a couple years with the help of a lot of people to develop the proper manufacturing method. In 2002 we "debuted" the product line to the World at the PGA show. Since then there have been several models come and go, to "Fine Tune" the line. We have had several OEM's approach us but, AccuFLEX actually started "Backwards" from most shaft companies. We wanted to build a strong "aftermarket" brand first. Most shaft companies start by "partnering" with an OEM and then release their aftermarket brand. Our way may be a bit tougher, but we are "plugging away." We feel we have alot to offer the Major OEM's and hopefully more and more doors will open.
G.WRX - It seems that most people relate Accuflex to Long Drive competitions. Can you touch on that a little?
Jody Baucom - When I first started AccuFLEX, I had a really good friend that was competing in LD. He came to me and said, "I cannot get a shaft that won't break or that works for me." So I told him that I would give it a shot. Well the first LD shaft was born (Extreme LD) my friend (Chad Roberts) went on to win several tournaments right away when he switched, so I was bombarded with requests, and to fit into our theme of "A Golf Shaft to Fit Every Swing", I answered with more LD shafts to fit a niche. The rest is history. World LD championships were being won so the LD success rate was high, little do people know, AccuFLEX shafts won on the PGA Tour and Nationwide Tour before winning the first World LD title. We already have 20 Tour Wins, Champions, PGA, LPGA, and Nationwide Tour, 3 of those Being Major Championships! so for those thinking AccuFLEX is LD specific, they haven't paid too much attention! LOL...
G.WRX -Accuflex had a great year on the Nationwide this year and some success on the PGA. Has there been a change of focus at Accuflex to get into the "premium" market and start going after the "Big Boys" in the Shaft market? Jody Baucom - Well, actually when we finally introduced our product line to the "World" at the 2002 PGA Show, many looked at our product as "high priced." We had the ICON at $200, the Icon v2 at $89, etc.... at this time $60 + was not the "norm" for shaft prices. So as you asked into the "premium" market, we like to think we helped lead the industry into that direction. Today, the industry has went "all out" with shafts upwards of $400 to $1,000 and we have decided to "take off the gloves" and bring the best to market as quick as possible, regardless of the cost. When we were the first to utilize Nano Technology, we could have easily charged $200 for our Evolution shaft, but we "sat" on the design until the price came down. We waited until we were able to offer the Evolution for $89 but, not with some of the new Products. Even though the technology price has come down for our Creation, it is still many times higher to "create" than other models. We feel today's customer will want the best they can get, and we feel that the Creation is it! G.WRX -The Icon HL has been a very popular shaft. What are the characteristics and which swing profile does it fit? Jody Baucom - The Icon HL has been the #1 Hybrid Shaft MODEL on the Nationwide Tour 10-11 weeks. The players out there love the fact that the shaft is stable, keeps the spin manageable and does not go left. The Icon HL needs to be fitted properly, most players that are a legit Stiff, need a Reg. and so on. The shaft was made to be "firm" to handle the spin and "hooking" issues of players that used hybrids. If you are a player that needs more trajectory and a touch "softer" feel, the AccuLAUNCH Hybrid would be the ticket, we use those quite a bit on the Champions Tour, as well as the Nationwide Tour for players that need that extra "help"
G.WRX - Can you talk a little about a "A Golf Shaft to Fit Every Swing"? Is the product range that in depth? Jody Baucom - When I started the company, it was because no one shaft company had a deep enough product line to fit all of my customers, so I set out to create "A Golf Shaft to Fit Every Swing" and just not push the flavor of the month, we have close to 20 different models, and we do feel we can fit Anyone!
G.WRX -You've mentioned in the past that Accuflex is one of the tightest spec shafts on the market. Can you explain that more? Was that in relation to puring? Jody Baucom - Our manufacturing method allows us to produce a golf shaft with no seam or "spine" meaning more consistency. There is a large company that computer checks for inconsistencies in a golf shaft, we have many customers that own these machines, that have reported back to us time and time again that AccuFLEX shafts rate the highest they have ever seen. Some shafts even close to "Perfect" at 98%
G.WRX - Are Accuflex shafts spine aligned before or after graphics are screened? If a player has a need for "logo down", could that be an issue? Jody Baucom - As mentioned above, our shafts have no seam or "Spine" and show very minimal FLO, we have done countless studies with all level golfers, with the same club set up with shafts installed differently, using launch monitors, face impact, and have found very, very little difference, no matter where the shafts were aligned.. SO logo down is NO problem, most tour players request this, and with 20 Tour Wins (mainly Driver shafts) seems like there has been no issues :-)
G.WRX -The Creation Shaft has been getting great reviews by people who've hit it. Can you talk a little bit of the technology that goes into it? Is it coming to retail and is there a price point in mind yet? Will there be creation shafts in more weight and in Hybrid, Iron, Woods, etc? Jody Baucom - We currently have for "Tour Only" a 65 and 80 gram Wood shaft. We already have the mandrels created for a Hybrid and Iron shaft. We are testing and seeing where these will possibly "fit" so yes the Creation line may be expanded. Even though the shaft line has not been officially released yet. We expect to release the Creation line just prior to the 2007 PGA show. Price point, soon to be announced "Perfection has its Price" tm 
G.WRX - The cost of Nano technology seems very high on per gram basis. What are the benefits to Nano technologies and why do you think it hasn't been adopted by larger shaft manufacturers yet? Jody Baucom - We were first to introduce Nano Technology to the Consumer Golf Shaft Market. We actually "sat" on the technology for about a year because of the concern about cost issues. Since then the cost has "eased" a bit, but still costly. We currently are using NanoMetal Polymer Composite Technology (dubbed NANOMET, our trademark name) for the Creation Line. We find that we can increase the surface area of a golf shaft, create tighter "areas" of a golf shaft, and utilize the Nano Technology to the advantage of the design and better improve the shaft. As for why the technology has not been adopted, it seems that a couple of our fellow shaft companies are utilizing the Nano Technology to some degree, just maybe not as widely used by us At AccuFLEX.
G.WRX - What's going to be big for Accuflex in 07?
Jody Baucom - Ohhhh, it seems like every year we have something "BIG", that most people just love. The problem is we are a David competing with several goliaths, but we keep "plugging" away. It is the small companies like ourselves that have proven in most all industries to be the most creative and innovative. We just keep pushing the envelope, and wait for our "Big Break." Look for the Creation series to really open some eyes of the "I have to have the best no matter what" crowd :-) We will also expand on the success of our Hybrid Technology with a couple additional models, and will expand heavily on a segment of the market we feel can grow rapidly, Graphite Iron Shafts. G.WRX - Jody, thanks again for spending the time with us and we will be checking back soon. Keep plugging!
 What's causing the biggest buzz on Golfwrx.com right now? Its not the latest prototype driver, iron, or putter but, a bar stool from SelectGolf! These pictures were taken at the 2006 WGC Amex tournament in England. At first, it looks like a seat on top of regular staff bag but, on closer inspection of their site, it actually has legs and foot rests.
No pricing or availability was seen but, it does look like a very nice niche product. The company has offices in the UK and Australia and a fairly good list of professional golfers. No Tiger Woods but, plenty of other fan favorites to choose from! -GX Photo Credits: GolfWRX member jaridyard
Tiger Woods conspiracy theoriest went into overdrive last week. Supposedly his Caddie, Steve Williams, purposely used a Buick Strap on his Ryder Cup bag for capitalistic purposes! The root of the rumor seems to come from the Sky Sports telecast where the odd logo was noticed in a supposedly neutral Sponsorship event. If Buick did bend Team Tiger's ear, I doubt it did them any good as Ryder Cup viewership averaged a 3.0-4.0 share according Larry Stewart, of the LA Times. That translates to about 3 to 4 million viewers in the US. About the same as late night network ratings. Where's Pat and Phil? Pat Perez annouced on his website that he retained his Tour Card by tying for 11 at the Reno-Tahoe Open. Unfortunately, he will be taking the next 4 months off because of tendenitis in "Both" elbows. As of now, PP is taking the rest of 2006 off to rest and heal his elbow. His bout with Tendonitis started back in April and has been nagging him ever since. In the past five months he's attempted to rest it, work it out and has seen specialists from San Diego to Scottsdale to Birmingham, AL.
Best of luck to P.P. next season and here's hoping he can rehab those elbows. Finally to wrap things up for today. Mike Weir has replaced Phil Mickelson, in the PGA Grand Slam of Golf, because he wanted to be with his family. In the mean time Phil fans, here's a lesson from Phil on how to hit a backwards wedge shot. -GX
Byron Nelson died yesterday at the age of 94. Gourmet Golfwrx sends its condolences to the family and friends of Byron Nelson. Although the golf community has suffered a great loss, his undeniable legacy and integrity will continue. As golfers, it is imperative that we strive to maintain Byron Nelson's memory and everything that he represents to the game of golf. He was, and will remain, the personification of the game of golf. 
GolfWRX had a chance to catch up with Chad Hall from True Temper Sports. Here's a brief intro about True Temper. True Temper Sports is the leading manufacturer of golf shafts in the world and is consistently the number one shaft on all professional tours globally. The Company markets a complete line of shafts under the True Temper ®, Grafalloy ® and Royal Precision ® shaft brands, and sells these brands in over thirty countries throughout the world. True Temper Sports is proudly represented by over 1000 individuals in ten facilities located in the United States, Europe, Japan, China and Australia. G.WRX- Hi Chad, Welcome to GolfWRX.com. How did True Temper fair this week on the Tours? Chad Hall - Thanks for having me Ryan. Each week there is a good chance that a True Temper shaft will end up in the winner’s circle. Between the True Temper and Rifle / Project X shaft brands, we have virtually all of the iron shafts in play. At the end of the year, our iron shafts will claim over 95% of the tournaments contested on the PGA Tour. G.WRX - Do you have the latest market share numbers for True Temper in retail and on Tour? Chad Hall - Retail market share information is tough to substantiate in the golf industry, but we estimate our worldwide steel shaft market share at approximately 82%. Tour usage in iron shafts is at 98%. The wood shaft category on tour is much more highly fragmented with the leader averaging around 25% each week. G.WRX - How is the acquisition of Royal Precision going? Will there be any delays in shipment of Project X shafts to OEMs?
Chad Hall - The acquisition has been going smoothly. Any time you bring together two separate companies there will be minor issues that must be addressed. However, we have not experienced any surprises and foresee no considerable delays of Rifle or Project X shafts to our customers. G.WRX- Will any RP products go away? Chad Hall - No different than our annual evaluation of the True Temper product line, we must make sure we are offering RP products that make sense to the consumer and company. However, there will be no significant drops to the Rifle and Project X product lines
G.WRX - How is the Bi-Matrix Proto different than the previous versions from years ago? Chad Hall - We took everything we have learned over the past 5 years about launch angle and spin rates and put it into the new Prototype. One significant finding is that this technology dramatically reduces spin rates over graphite. This requires the player to maximize their launch angle (our recommendation is to increase driver loft) to capture the full benefits of the technology. G.WRX - How has Black Gold fared? Is there as much buzz around it like Project X? 
Chad Hall -There is certainly more buzz around the Project X franchise than Black Gold, but consideration must be given that Black Gold has been on the market for a very short period of time (9 months) while Project X is in its 4th year. We have seen over a dozen different PGA Tour players put Black Gold into play throughout the 2006 season. This is a strong usage number in year one because iron shafts are much more difficult to switch than wood shafts. As I’m sure you and your readers can appreciate, we all have a trust and comfort level with our iron shafts that goes much deeper than our wood shafts. Tour players are no different. This makes the task of switching them into a new iron shaft a difficult process that takes substantial time. In the end, we are very pleased with the sales of the shaft and will continue to promote on tour and in the marketplace. G.WRX - Does TT have anything on the horizon for graphite shafts? Chad Hall - In the past TT developed graphite shafts (i.e. EI-70), but in recent years we have eliminated all graphite shafts under the TT brand to focus solely on the innovation of steel shafts. All graphite shafts are developed and marketed separately under the Grafalloy brand. G.WRX - In TT's view, what will be big in 07? Chad Hall - Grafalloy. Grafalloy. Grafalloy. I can’t give away my secrets, but keep your eyes open for something big. Thanks for spending some time with us Chad. We will be checking back with you soon. -G.WRX
Photo/Image Credits: © TrueTemper Sports
Few interesting events happened on the LPGA last week. It started off with home town favorite, Natalie Gulbis pulling out of the tournament because of a staph infection in her finger. She claimed to have experienced tingling in her hands so, lets hope it's not too serious. That left Paula Creamer, Christina Kim, and Dorthy Delasin to represent. Unfortunately, none could over take Webb.
Kelli Kuehne made it through the hilly course with an insuling pump attached to her hip.  Great story and shows that kids really do pay attention. Grace Park marked her return from another back injury and Greg Johnston was her looper. Veteran Caddy Johnston didn't seem to be out of a job too long after being dismissed as Wie's Caddy. Speaking of the earlier home court advantage, the SF Chronicle had a nice piece on how Lorena is cheered on at each event and given the inside word on conditions by the course maintenace workers. One wonders if Sergio gets the same treatment? Congrats again to Karri Webb this week. With all the young guns on Tour, it seems like her and Annika still have somethings to teach. -GX Photo Credits: LPGA
 Gourmet Golfwrx congratulates the Europeans on a Ryder Cup well played. It's back to the drawing board for the Americans. With the Ryder Cup creating plenty of buzz, it was another great week to be a blogger. Here's a look back at last week at Gourmet Golfwrx. Our new contributor, Marcus Vindictus, lead off the festivities with a pregame analysis of the Ryder Cup. His foresight and hindsight is 20/20. He doesn't wear glasses. GxGolfer gets us up to date on the chatter across the pond and gives us a look at cool gear on hand in Ireland. If you're in London today, go Tiger hunting. If you're lucky, you might get your likeness portrayed in Tiger Woods '07 for all eternity. Byron Morgan designs putters and chats with Golfwrx.com. Have a look at the interview. Think you can bet with the big boys? Make like a pigeon and fly your way over to Vegas for some serious Wynn action. Cheers to the E.U. and another great week at Gourmet Golfwrx. Stay tuned and keep that bag fresh. -G.Gwrx
 I was browsing the Hooked on Golf Blog (always a quality read) and found some interesting information. If you're a high roller or you like big time wagers, listen closely. "Saw an interesting ad a second ago during the Ryder Cup. Wynn Las Vegas (resort/casino) is putting on a golf event that anyone can enter and have a chance to win $2,000,000. That’s the largest purse in golf history. It’s called The Ultimate Game. All you have to do to compete is pony up the $50,000 entry fee and you can’t be someone who was fully exempt on the PGA Tour at any time." Make sure you look the part because the tournament will be televised on FOX. Get some new golf gear.
Byron Morgan is a name that many of heard but, few really know.  He is a Golf Industry veteran and a well respected club and putter designer. GolfWRX had a chance to catch up Byron and ask him a few questions about his past and current projects.
G.WRX- Your focus is on putters now but, you have designed some woods and drivers in the past. Are you working on any wood or driver designs right now? B.M.- I will do consulting for anyone making woods and wedges but for now I am only making putters.
G.WRX- Can you comment on your work with John Byron Golf Company? B.M. -John Byron Company had a good run in the 1990's but the mojo had gone. I have always had the golf business and am continuing on with my work. John has always worked as a golfpro and is today. G.WRX- Japan seems to be a hot bed for putter collectors. Do you have a following there?
B.M. -Japan is my biggest market because of good marketing by the distributor there. High quality tour like putters for a fair price. Also they appreciate that I make all the putters myself, no one else works here. I hand stamp my name on the putters, not some guy named Jose. A lot of putter makers never touch the putter you buy. This is not bad it's just the way it is. G.WRX -From your website, we see you've done some MOI type designs. What are you thoughts about it and do you have anything in the works? B.M. -The Dave Pelz original 3 ball putter was the first MOI putter I saw and it works good. The USGA said it was not plane and simple under the rules of golf and made it illegal. But now companies make some funny looking putters and USGA looks the other way. G.WRX -Is there a personal model or favorite putter you have? What are you playing now? B.M. -My favorite putter is a Ping Scottsdale Anser. I use a SBE Prototype never produced, I only made two pieces. G.WRX -Are there any Pros that are currently using Byron putters? Is there a Byron Tour Rep? Most famous win? B.M. -Trevino, Floyd, Shaw, and Pate have won PGA tournaments using putters I made. Shaw won a senior major tournament. G.WRX -Byron Putters are known for customization and customer service. Can you explain the custom process a little? Is there anything that is "off limits"?
B.M. -I will make anything that doesn't have trade mark rights. G.WRX - Do you have a preference in putter material? Do you find carbon easier to mill than stainless?
B.M. -I have made putters out of all materials but I like 303 stainless for the cnc made putters and carbon for handmade putters.
G.WRX -Byron, Thanks for again finding some time to talk with us. For those who want to experience one of the best putter customization options, service, and value in Golf, check out Byron Putters at z-mangolf.com and byronputters.com. Byron, one final question for now. What's in Your Bag? 
B.M. -I play with Ping Eye Two irons 3-LW, Prototype putter, V-steel 3 and 5 woods, and a 10 degree VS 2 prototype driver with a Harrison Striper shaft.
 Tiger, in the flesh and in bits and pixels will be on the prowl in London next week. All of this is in the name of EA Sports- It's in the Game! Can you feel your rumble pack and your heart beating yet?
From IGN.com: "Proceedings tee-off from 10am, Monday September 25 in a central London location and Tiger Woods is set to make a rare public appearance, challenging celebrities, competition winners and one member of the public. Three par three hole courses have been recreated for the event and participants will need to tackle their virtual counterparts in Tiger Woods PGA Tour 07 before hitting the green and taking on Woods himself. Personality-wise, Vernon Kay, Ian Wright and Jodie Kidd are all set to test their mettle against the world's number one golfer and the event will be televised on Channel 4's T4. On top of that, members of the public can try their hands at the PGA Tour 07, with game pods and skill zone challenges available throughout the day. Spectators will have a single chance to drive a famous fairway as Woods in PGA Tour 07 and the participant with the longest drive will join other competition winners to take on the real-life Woods later in the day. The overall competition winner is set to earn the right to be immortalised in a future version of EA's golfing franchise." Wanna get in on the action? Be sure to check EA's Tiger Woods '07 site on 9/25/2006 for the final details and exact location. The Ryder Cup may be extended to Monday which means this London event may need to be rescheduled.
Ryder Cup week continues and here is some cool equipment to look for if you are there or on TV. GolfWRX members received a sneak peak at the Robert J. Bettinardi's 2006 Ryder Cup Commemorative Putter. The nano milled flat face is definetly an advancement in putter design. Each US Team Member has received a putter, including a lefty for Lefty. Let's hope one of them puts it into play!
David Mills is also producing a very special Fleetwood model putter for K-Club Members.
Scheduled for a very limited run of 10 stainless putters. This will definetly be another Mills classic.
For the shoe afficianados, there is the Adidas Limited Edition 360 European and Team USA shoes. Lots of opinions on both side of the pond on these.
 
A few last notes. Luke Donald is still playing a Sonartec/Royal Collection Super CV BBD 3 Wood with an Accra Shaft and you may see some Sonartec MDs in play. Finally, David Toms is supposedly using an Accuflex Creation shaft in his Driver. That should turn some heads!
-GX Photo Credits: GolfWRX members danielscho and bambooluv
 September 19th is International Talk Like a Pirate Day and the Irish press has taken the opportunity to launch a couple shots across the bow of the US Ryder Cup team. In an article in the latest Dubliner magazine, the publication took shots at the Team's Wives by describing them in very unflattering terms. They also got Tiger's blood boiling by includiing supposedly topless photos of his wife Elin. The UK's Daily Mail list most of the other outlandish statements and the US Team reaction. Of course the Daily Mail also made its statement about the US Dress Code.
British Tabloids have always pushed the edge of social commentary but, have they crossed the line? Do the US blokes need to take it in stride or use it as the pinnacle of motivation? Luckily, its a match play event because I think most people know what Tiger's reaction will be on the course. Let us know what you think by submitting a comment or follow the discussion in our forum.
-GX Photo Credits: ©unknown
Shhhh... If you listen closely, you can hear the whispers on the range. There is no smiling, fist bumping, or joking between teams. It's game time. The Gourmet Golfwrx build-up to the Ryder Cup starts with some pre-game analysis from Marcus Vindictus, G.Gwrx' new contributing writer. Don't forget to add your comments and opinions.
Enjoy!
Irish Eyes Will Be Smiling Marcus Vinductus The Americans will bounce back. After the massacre at Oakland Hills in 2004 they will be focused, determined, and will even sacrifice personal agendas for the good of the team. They will play to their talent level for a change. They will sink the big putts. Tiger has too much pride to be considered a “loser”. He is the anointed “leader” of this team. He is playing the best golf of his storied career and he simply  cannot be beaten. He will take the youngsters under his wing and teach them how to win tough matches. Phil is now clearly the second best player in the world and DiMarco proved his value in team competition with last year’s amazing performance in the Presidents’ Cup. If nothing else, the law of averages must even-out the lucky bounces and 25-foot bombs the Euros have dropped on the Yanks in the past two Ryder Cups. The Americans will bounce back, won’t they? They must! It was great that the Euros won a couple of times to make it a true rivalry but this is getting out of hand. The Americans have lost three out of the last four and their only victory was secured by a 50-foot prayer by Justin Leonard. It is time for them to puff out their chests and reclaim the cup that they possessed from 1959 to 1983, an astonishing 24 year dominance. It is time. They will bounce back. Won’t they? No. No they won’t. Top five reasons why the cup will stay on Euro soil in 2006: 1. Top Guns – Forget about major championships, world events, and world rankings. This is a team event. You can only objectively draw on similar events to determine the cumulative value of each team. Tiger and Phil can only control two total points in the Sunday single matches. They are dependent on the play of their partners for the other four matches in which they are expected to compete (hopefully they are not paired together again, which was a well-documented disaster). The European team, consisting of accomplished Ryder-Cuppers Monty, Olazabal, Westwood, and Sergio, have a combined Ryder Cup record of 55-27-13 record. The most experienced U.S. Ryder-Cuppers; Tiger, Phil, Furyk, and David Toms, have a combined record of 24-31-8. We may laugh at the anguish of another failed attempt by Monty and Sergio to win an elusive major championship on any soil of the planet but they are much more accomplished in this event. There are only four competitive players in this event with double-digit career point totals in this event and they are all on the Euro side. 2. Experience – The cumulative Ryder Cup record of all Euros competing in this event is 75-62-21 compared to 31-39-10 on the American side. Unlike past years, in which the American team looked superior on paper, this team will include the likes of J.J. Henry, Brett Wetterich, and Vaughn Taylor. I do not recall a single significant event in which any of these players excelled. I realize that the PGA Tour is the deepest, most competitive tour on Earth and these players earned the right to be on the team based on their accomplishments over the past 12 months but can we expect them to win pressure-packed Ryder Cup matches on foreign soil? No. No they won’t.
 3. Ireland – For years it was considered the red-headed step-child of Europe. Remember learning of the potato famine in Junior High? How about decades of high unemployment and a legitimate reputation as one of the highest per-capita drinking populations in Europe? Well, the economy has rebounded dramatically, in large part due to the largest source of revenue in the country – tourism. Americans love to travel to Ireland because we like to drink. We also like to play golf and Ireland has a rich, underrated array of historical courses form which to choose. Royal Portrush, Royal County Down, Ballybunion and the K Club are all listed among the greatest courses in the world. It is a shame that this storied event has yet to be played in this country. The excitement and anticipation that awaits this event will be electric and will prove to be an added measure of “home-course advantage” for the Euros.
4. Team vs. Individuals – This point has been made by Johnny Miller and other media “experts” and it is true. The Euros buy in to the fact that they are a team that is a sum of their parts. They have closer personal relationships and they believe that no one is expected to carry the load for victory. It is one putt and one point at a time. It is a familiar formula that has proven successful. The Americans, on the other hand, are products of the largest, most lucrative tour in the world. Their two top players do not get along well which must have a polarizing effect on the other players on the team. They seem to feel that they have a “bulls-eye” on their backs rather than trusting that if they fail, their teammates will have their backs.
5. Captains – Although they have made only two significant decisions thus far and the comprehensive analysis can only be made after the event, it is worth noting that Ian Woosnam made much better use of his two captain’s picks. Lee Westwood is an accomplished Ryder Cup competitor, compiling a career record of 11-8-1. Despite falling short of individual expectations he always seems to play solid in this event. He has more career points earned than any player on the American side. Darren Clarke, currently enduring the tragic personal loss of his wife due to cancer, will prove to be an additional emotional lift for the Euros.  If there was any doubt that complacency would set in it will be replaced by the will to support one of the best European players of our generation. In terms of raw talent, there is no one the European side with as much “game” as Darren Clarke. It should also be noted that he is one of three Irishmen on the Euro team and the fans will be supporting every shot he makes. Tom Lehman, on the other hand, decided to go conservative with the selections of Scott Verplank and Stewart Cink. These are fine players with Ryder Cup experience, but combined career records of 4-5-1 and no wins on any tour over the past two years do not intimidate anyone on Euro soil. This was not a good sign for American golf fans. Instead of taking two players that have similar games and career pedigrees, Lehman would have served his team better by choosing a more accomplished player, such as Fred Couples. With a career record of 7-9-4 in this event and a stellar showing at last year’s President’s Cup, Freddie is a player that commands respect and can still beat anyone in the world on a given day. A more risky pick to complement Fred Couples could have been Sean O’Hair. Although he had a disappointing year, O’Hair has immense talent and it would have been good to give valuable experience to an aging team void of budding young superstars.
The Americans will be focused. They will put up a good fight. But in the end, they simply will not have enough to win the upcoming matches at the K Club. At least this time around we should not expect them to win because, on paper and in spirit, they are not the better team.
 By the way, Ben you look great on Gourmet Golfwrx. Keep up the good work. Can you believe it's been 20 weeks since we first met? I still remember our giddy beginnings and growing pains. Now, it looks like we're growing old together (...sigh...). Thanks to the addition of GXGolfer, a new contributing writer @ Gourmet Golfwrx, we had a fertile week. Here's a look back at the past seven days: We found out that Phil Mickelson's brother, Tim, is Augusta dreaming. More of a purist, he's going to try to get there as an amateur. Sound the trumpets. GXgolfer makes his pressence felt with his introduction to the blogosphere. Oh yeah! Somebody say something about a little event called the Ryder Cup? What's that? Get your match play strategy tuned up before the tourney starts. UST is getting plenty of love on tour and is giving some of that love back to Golfwrx. Public service announcement: Don't feed the trolls! They're fat enough already. Although, remember those bags of e.coli infested spinach? Feel free to feed that to the trolls. Watch out for the new clubs from Callaway that are about to hit the market. Not to be outdone, Titleist has some gear in the works too. Check out the top-secret spy plane photo. Mysterious and interesting. If you like hard drives on and off the golf course, grab the new HD Tivo DVR. You can sit on your couch any time and watch hard drives on the PGA whenever and as many times as you want. Remember TJ Valentine from Big Break IV? Thanks to GXgolfer we have an exclusive interview. Don't forget to give back to the community. If you're looking for charity ideas or charity opportunity, have a look at what the Golfwrx membership is doing. As much as Tom Lehman loves Bono, it looks like the Ryder Cup opening ceremonies will be without U2. If you're in the bay area, keep your eyes peeled for Bono sightings. Astronauts and Cosmonauts like golf too. E21 golf is looking to address this underserved market. And finally, from space came life. Or was it intelligent design? Maybe it was evolution. The debate ends with the Accuflex Creation and Evolution shafts. Pheww. That was the quick version of last week. It's Ryder Cup week and we have a lot more great content coming your way.
Stay tuned and keep that bag fresh! -G.Gwrx
 There is a lot of controversey these days about Darwin and evolution. Some people favor creationism while others prefer intelligent design. This debate will never end, but I am certain that golfers will have little to argue when it comes to Accuflex. There is no doubt that the new shaft designs from Accuflex are intelligently designed.
I have recently had the pleasure of putting the Accuflex Evolution shaft and Creation shaft (Tour Only) into play. Both were intelligently assembled by Joe Kwok, the master himeslf. The Evolution shaft is installed in a 9.5 Callaway FT3 at 44.75", 205g, and D3.5. Joe tells me that its unusual to obtain this weight and length combo for this setup. The shaft itself is mid-high kick, 75g, cpm's at 250, and is tip weighted. All of this produces a high and flat ball flight. NanoComposite technology adds strength to the shaft, but results in a slightly harsher feel than Nano-less shafts. At impact, as the shaft releases, I feel more of a smooth, horizontal punch as opposed to a quick kick. The upper half of the shaft, all the way to the butt, is thick and hefty. This is great for our oversized drivers and the heft provides stability, allowing for an agressive swing. Accuflex aesthetics are heavily invested in the color/paint. The irridescent orange is striking in the summer sun. It looks great, but I could use some creative graphics with the creative paint. This shaft feels great and performs well on the course.
Speaking of creation, another Accuflex shaft has been introduced. The Creation shaft is limited to professional golfers and has already found success in its short existence. Like the Evolution, the Creation has a fat butt section that reaches to the center of the shaft. This creates a stable feel throughout the swing, similar to the Evolution. I received the shaft installed in a TaylorMade R7 425.
According to Joe, "I thought it's gonna be a butt-stiff shaft, [but] I was wrong on that one. I think this one had something to do with their pin point [of] the variable bending properties design. They basically can stiffen or soften the shaft area that will maximize the performance and at same time doesn't give up the feel." Since I have had this driver for a limited amount of time and with limited opportunities to put it in play, I'll leave the review to Joe. For his swing speed (108-110) the shaft is perfect. He feels the "ball flight is high enough but never seen a balloon one. Definitely come out hot from the face due to the unload movement of the shafts. The fat butt area make this shaft feel so stable through out the swing. This shaft feels smooth through out the swing and no doubt it has a lot of feel to it." For Joe, the "biggest thing that made me hitting the club better is that this shaft gives me a ton of feel to give me a better consistency on my swing." Hopefully you can get a sense of my excitement through my words. I am by no means a professional golfer or a professional shaft reviewer. I can assertively state that these clubs have performed well for me on the course. Don't take my word for it, the members at Golfwrx have plenty of opinions. Try one on for size and decide for yourself. Create a driver and Evolve your game.
US Astronauts lost a bolt and washer in outer space last Tuesday and that brought back the memories of Element 21's promotion of Alan Shepard's 35th anniversary Moon shot. The first attempt was scheduled for last June but, somebody forgot to ask Nasa. Since then Nasa has green lighted the commercial after studying fears that the golf ball might come back and cause catastophic damage to the Space Station. These were the same similar concerns raised about the lost bolt and washer in space. From past Nasa accounts, it does seem that this was not an infrequent event as similar events have happened on past missions. Toronto based Element 21 made the agreements with the Russian Space Agency who has already sent up the specially designed Element 21 equipment. Including balls, a special platform, and gold plated 6-iron, .  The next attempt is scheduled in Novemeber, Thanksgiving Day, so set your Tivos. According to Element 21's statement: “Just about every single record for distance in the golf industry will be shattered this fall when an astronaut will hit a golf ball into orbit around the Earth using an E21 golf club"
The ball will be trackable for up to 3 years on Element 21's Web site. -GX
Photo Credits: © space.com
 As if being the Captain of the 2006 U.S.A Ryder Cup team wasn't enough, Tom Lehman has also been trying to get a free rock concert out of the whole deal. In jest, he expressed a desire for U2 to be at the Ryder Cup opening ceremony and that his absence would be felt if the rock band failed to perform.
The Irish Arts, Sports and Tourism Minister John O'Donoghue reports, to Lehman's dismay, that Bono and the band will not attend the opening ceremony.
Bummer. Might the reason be that (rumor has it) Bono is expected to be in the Bay Area (San Francisco specific) some time next week? How do I know this? I have my sources (U2 2006 Vertigo Tour backstage and front row, San Jose, Sat. & Sun). Tom, you should have called me. I'd have U2 there in a flash  However, the opening ceremonies on September 21 will consist of a "lavish pageant, special anthem and over 300 actors, dancers and musicians for the Olympic-style celebration." “There'll be no Bono at the opening unless he arrives and I'm not told about it, which, incidentally, in Ireland can happen at any time,” O'Donoghue told Reuters on Wednesday.
GolfWRX Members are very active in their communities. GolfWRX likes to help spread the word and do what it can for good causes. Read on and help out if you can.
From GolfWRX member Mizuno:
AUSTIN AREA GOLFERS
The John Jr. Masters Foundation 7th Annual Golf Tournament and Fundraiser Honoring Megan Horton
I have been a member of this board since June of 2005 and I have learn so much more about this game we all love from the postings. Currently, I do not get to play as much as I did in the past, but just reading the posts everyday makes me still feel connected to the sport.
My 14 year old daughter was born with a congenital heart defect and this year received a heart transplant on June 25th. The support of our friends and neighbors has been a tremendous source of strength and comfort to our family during this difficult time.
Now, our friends are sponsoring a golf tournament to benefit the Miracle4Megan Medical Assistance Fund to ease the financial burden not covered by insurance. The tournament is scheduled for Monday, October 23rd at Avery Ranch Golf Club. Details about the tournament and the registration form are in the attached pdf files. Additional details about Megan and her Medical Assistance Fund can be found at:
http://www.miracle4megan.com/home.html
I would like to thank GOLFwrx and Gxgolfer for allowing me to post this message. I would also like to thank any board members in the Austin area in advance for their participation and please make sure to introduce yourself to me at the tournament on the 23rd. ************************ From GolfWRX member Mugnut:
A Helping Hand for the Special Olympics of Massachusetts Dear GolfWRX'ers: For the last 4 years, my firm has hosted a charity golf tournament for the Special Olympics of Massachusetts at Myopia Hunt Club in Hamilton Massachusetts. This year, the tournament is set for Tuesday, October 10, 2006.
I am the chair of the auction committee this year. We have already put together some amazing foursomes of golf at some great New England courses as auction items, as well as a great trip (including airfare) to Hazeltine in Minnesota.
I'm still looking for some additional auction and raffle items, and thought some of the good members here (especially reps. and retail folks) might be willing to donate some hard goods (clubs, etc.) to be auctioned/raffled off for a great cause.
In addition, we have still have some single and forusome spots available. Please pm me or email through the site so that I can forward our invitation to you directly. Myopia really is a special, and uniquely historic, part of American golf, and it is an honor that we are permitted to hold this event there.
Thanks for your time. I really hope that, with your help, we can make this an incredible fundraiser fror the Special Olympics, and enjoy some great golf on one of America's most historic courses.
Peter a/k/a Mugnut
*********************** From GolfWRX member TJ Valentine:
Another project that I am working on which is very close to my heart is putting together the 4th annual DLV Chance to Learn Scholarship charity golf event. I created this 3 years ago after the passing of my mother in 2003 to cancer. I raise monies for local scholarships for deserving student athletes in my community as well as cancer research etc. I have a simple site www.DLVChancetolearn.com that helps me promote the tournament and the awareness of the charity. This years event will be October 16th at my home club Pinehills Golf Club in Plymouth Mass on the Nicklaus course. www.pinehillsgolf.com *********************** -GX
GolfWRX had a chance to catch up with Big Break IV contestant TJ Valentine. TJ joined our forum and was helping us by contributing some content. Check out his section on the GolfWRX forums.
******************* GX- Hi TJ! What's new? TJ- Hey Ryan, things have been very good on my end. very busy but very good. My teaching schedule pushed me to my limits with time sometimes but is well worth it. I have not been playing as much as I would like to be but I have made some swing changes and they have paid out as I have been playing very very well. My fall schedule will include more tourney rounds than my summer schedule. GX- Has the Big Break's exposure shifted your priorities? TJ- The popularity of the Big Break has made my primary practice of running my schools and teaching my top priority with my tourney play falling a little behind.
GX- How's Accuflex treating you? Jody is a great GolfWRX Sponsor and I heard you guys were working on some things.
TJ- he guys over at Accuflex have been great to me. I am currently playing couple of their shafts in my bag which I am very very impressed with. Another small company that has an unbelievable product is Mentor Sports as I have been using the Duet Putter this year and boy is it ever the best rolling putter I have used. GX- What else have you been up to Media exposure wise? TJ- I have been doing some articles in magazines and newspapers with regards to instruction. http://www.golfoncapecod.com/Instruction-Summ06.php example. I was lucky enough to be asked to participate in another golf channel program that will be aired this fall. The show Golf with Style this season has a little twist. A bunch of us from all of the big break series got to participate in match play matches all over the world as we also highlighted some of the best resorts at these great golf courses. Look for the series to start later this month. I believe my episode will air a week after the Ryder Cup as I was in Ireland. GX- Any pictures or info you can share now? TJ- I will be able to post personal pictures I have from the trip after the show airs. GX- I understand there is a Charity project you do annually? TJ- Another project that I am working on which is very close to my heart is putting together the 4th annual DLV Chance to Learn Scholarship charity golf event. I created this 3 years ago after the passing of my mother in 2003 to cancer. I raise monies for local scholarships for deserving student athletes in my community as well as cancer research organizations such as The American Cancer Society, The Jimmy Fund and Art beCAUSE. I have a simple site www.DLVChancetolearn.com that helps me promote the tournament and the awareness of the charity. This years event will be October 16th at my home club Pinehills Golf Club in Plymouth Mass on the Nicklaus course. www.pinehillsgolf.com GX- TJ, I know we were both excited that you might have the opportunity to work with us on an audio segment each week. I know you had really bad computer issues plus time costraints. TJ- I have had major major computer issues this year which has included losing all my student data and all of my software. I have had to use my work computer to retrieve emails and such hence I am always a day behind or so on my emails so I apologize if this is slow. GX- TJ, We are glad to have you associated with GolfWRX.com. We hope to work with you on some of your future projects and thank you for your time! TJ- I want to help your site as much as I can it is such an amazing tool! *******************
-GX
Photo Credits: ©TJValentine.com
The new HD Tivo has been announced at CES and it has got people buzzing. Imagine seeing Tiger's
beads of sweat on his face, the hole out from the sand trap, or Swing Vision in HD anytime and as many times as you want!  Heck, if the TV is big enough, some people will be reading greens for Sergio. Previously, direct High Definition Tivo recording have only been a reality for Satellite customers but, the S3 now has a cable card slot. This means Comcast, Time Warner, etc. users can join in on the fun. And for you sound nuts, |
