Hi everyone,
I thought this story might be of interest to everyone. An interesting commentary on the challenges that we face "On the road to the LPGA."
MM
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
An update before THE UPDATE
Hi everyone,
It's amazing how busy one can be when not traveling, living in one place, and catching up on months of being on the road. I am currently working on a more formal wrap up of the 2007 season which many of you will be receiving in the mail. I will also post it on my blog at a later date.
I played respectably at Futures Qualifying shooting 77-81-78. I struggled a bit with my health that week, managing some soreness and discomfort in my shoulder and left rib. I did gain status to play next year, which was my primary goal, so definitely some good news came out of the week. My coach, Tom, came to caddy for me during a practice round and in the final round as well. We ended the final round well coming less than a foot to holing out for eagle on the 18th hole. A nice memory to end the "official" 2007 season!
I returned to Jacksonville and have been unpacking and organizing. I have also been seeing my physical therapist/trainer, Matt Serlo. I met Matt in 2006 when I began doing physical therapy for my shoulder. He has been a great resource and help with my therapy and fitness. He referred me to Brian Magna who I have been working with while in Connecticut. They have similar philosophies and both have experience working on the major professional golf tours so I definitely feel like I am in good hands. I am pleased to report that I really feel good, probably the best I have felt health-wise since 2003. I no longer feel like I am guarding or protecting my body but I can swing freely and live fairly normally. This is a HUGE victory!
There are a bunch of golf pros who workout at Matt's clinic, Five Star Physical Therapy, so I am in good company. Because of The Players Club (TPC), which is a PGA Facility, there seems to be a plethora of PGA Tour and Champions Tour Players who live in the greater Jacksonville area. It is always interesting to me to observe other successful athletes. Many of these guys have won and been competitive on both tours and to listen to their stories and experiences is very inspiring.
So, what's next in my schedule? I will be practicing at TPC the next few weeks and working out with Matt at Five Star as well as returning to pilates classes (I have really missed my regular pilates workouts!). On December 12th I will be traveling to Phoenix to attend a Vision 54 seminar at the Legacy Golf Resort. I call this a seminar and not a "golf school" as there will be no mechanics taught. Vision 54 originated from the theory that it's possible to make birdie on every hole, thus shooting 18 under par which is 54 (on a par 72 golf course). The instructors, Pia Nilsson & Lynn Marriott, embrace the belief that every individual has unlimited and unique potential. I have previously had the privilege to attend one of their seminars while still coaching at Yale and was able to pass along much of what I learned to my players. I am looking forward to this opportunity to further develop the mental side of my game and add valuable practice ideas and approaches.
Following my Phoenix trip, right before the Christmas holiday, I will return to Florida and head to Orlando to see Tom as well as play practice rounds for the upcoming Ginn Got Game Challenge. The winner of this "challenge" (a 2 round stroke play event) will earn a spot in the 2008 LPGA Ginn Open. I will play 2 practice rounds while in Orlando and the event will be shortly after the new year on January 5th & 6th. This plan takes me up to the Christmas and New Year's holidays. I will be spending the holidays in Florida with family and friends.
I was thinking the other day that there are some books that I would like to recommend to everyone. These books are mostly for the golf enthusiast but also for the sports/fitness enthusiast. 2 books are written by Pia and Lynn and the third is on stretching. If you are looking for holiday gift ideas check out the following titles:
Stretching, by Bob Anderson
As I reflected on this year I was able to evaulate my play and improvement. This year was truly a victory in many areas: my health, my mental game and confidence, and improved results. I will be touching upon these three areas in my wrap-up letter. I feel very comfortable on the golf course these days, in my element, and with my improved health I no longer feel like I am protecting or guarding my body. If I could describe my state of mind these days it would be of "quiet patience." I am thankful to be at this place, not placing pressure or pushing results. I am certain that results will begin to flourish as I embrace this state of mind. I already see carry over in my practice as my last 2 rounds have been 3 over 75's. I think it's a preview of what's to come next year.
Thanks for bearing with a long post but I had a lot to report! Many of you can expect to hear from me by traditional "snail mail" this holiday season. I am grateful for a successful 2007 and excited for the 2008 that lays ahead!
I wouldn't be where I am without your support and encouragement. More to come soon,
Mary
It's amazing how busy one can be when not traveling, living in one place, and catching up on months of being on the road. I am currently working on a more formal wrap up of the 2007 season which many of you will be receiving in the mail. I will also post it on my blog at a later date.
I played respectably at Futures Qualifying shooting 77-81-78. I struggled a bit with my health that week, managing some soreness and discomfort in my shoulder and left rib. I did gain status to play next year, which was my primary goal, so definitely some good news came out of the week. My coach, Tom, came to caddy for me during a practice round and in the final round as well. We ended the final round well coming less than a foot to holing out for eagle on the 18th hole. A nice memory to end the "official" 2007 season!
I returned to Jacksonville and have been unpacking and organizing. I have also been seeing my physical therapist/trainer, Matt Serlo. I met Matt in 2006 when I began doing physical therapy for my shoulder. He has been a great resource and help with my therapy and fitness. He referred me to Brian Magna who I have been working with while in Connecticut. They have similar philosophies and both have experience working on the major professional golf tours so I definitely feel like I am in good hands. I am pleased to report that I really feel good, probably the best I have felt health-wise since 2003. I no longer feel like I am guarding or protecting my body but I can swing freely and live fairly normally. This is a HUGE victory!
There are a bunch of golf pros who workout at Matt's clinic, Five Star Physical Therapy, so I am in good company. Because of The Players Club (TPC), which is a PGA Facility, there seems to be a plethora of PGA Tour and Champions Tour Players who live in the greater Jacksonville area. It is always interesting to me to observe other successful athletes. Many of these guys have won and been competitive on both tours and to listen to their stories and experiences is very inspiring.
So, what's next in my schedule? I will be practicing at TPC the next few weeks and working out with Matt at Five Star as well as returning to pilates classes (I have really missed my regular pilates workouts!). On December 12th I will be traveling to Phoenix to attend a Vision 54 seminar at the Legacy Golf Resort. I call this a seminar and not a "golf school" as there will be no mechanics taught. Vision 54 originated from the theory that it's possible to make birdie on every hole, thus shooting 18 under par which is 54 (on a par 72 golf course). The instructors, Pia Nilsson & Lynn Marriott, embrace the belief that every individual has unlimited and unique potential. I have previously had the privilege to attend one of their seminars while still coaching at Yale and was able to pass along much of what I learned to my players. I am looking forward to this opportunity to further develop the mental side of my game and add valuable practice ideas and approaches.
Following my Phoenix trip, right before the Christmas holiday, I will return to Florida and head to Orlando to see Tom as well as play practice rounds for the upcoming Ginn Got Game Challenge. The winner of this "challenge" (a 2 round stroke play event) will earn a spot in the 2008 LPGA Ginn Open. I will play 2 practice rounds while in Orlando and the event will be shortly after the new year on January 5th & 6th. This plan takes me up to the Christmas and New Year's holidays. I will be spending the holidays in Florida with family and friends.
I was thinking the other day that there are some books that I would like to recommend to everyone. These books are mostly for the golf enthusiast but also for the sports/fitness enthusiast. 2 books are written by Pia and Lynn and the third is on stretching. If you are looking for holiday gift ideas check out the following titles:
Stretching, by Bob Anderson
Every Shot Must Have a Purpose, by Lynn Marriott and Pia Nilsson
The Game Before the Game: The Perfect 30 Minute Practice, by Lynn Marriott and Pia Nilsson
As I reflected on this year I was able to evaulate my play and improvement. This year was truly a victory in many areas: my health, my mental game and confidence, and improved results. I will be touching upon these three areas in my wrap-up letter. I feel very comfortable on the golf course these days, in my element, and with my improved health I no longer feel like I am protecting or guarding my body. If I could describe my state of mind these days it would be of "quiet patience." I am thankful to be at this place, not placing pressure or pushing results. I am certain that results will begin to flourish as I embrace this state of mind. I already see carry over in my practice as my last 2 rounds have been 3 over 75's. I think it's a preview of what's to come next year.
Thanks for bearing with a long post but I had a lot to report! Many of you can expect to hear from me by traditional "snail mail" this holiday season. I am grateful for a successful 2007 and excited for the 2008 that lays ahead!
I wouldn't be where I am without your support and encouragement. More to come soon,
Mary
Monday, November 5, 2007
Update soon!
Hi everyone!
Things are great but needless to say I am busy! In the last month I played in LPGA Qualifying in Venice, FL, flew back to Connecticut to wrap-up my duties at Yale, pack up all my belongings, and drive the 16 hours from Connecticut to Jacksonville, FL!
The last week I have been in Orlando and Lakeland preparing for Duramed Futures Tour qualifying. I have had some great practice sessions and have spent quality time with my coach, Tom Garner. I am looking forward to a great week!
When things calm down a bit I will give you more of a detailed wrap-up of the last month. Don't forget to follow results of Futures Tour qualifying!
Mary
Things are great but needless to say I am busy! In the last month I played in LPGA Qualifying in Venice, FL, flew back to Connecticut to wrap-up my duties at Yale, pack up all my belongings, and drive the 16 hours from Connecticut to Jacksonville, FL!
The last week I have been in Orlando and Lakeland preparing for Duramed Futures Tour qualifying. I have had some great practice sessions and have spent quality time with my coach, Tom Garner. I am looking forward to a great week!
When things calm down a bit I will give you more of a detailed wrap-up of the last month. Don't forget to follow results of Futures Tour qualifying!
Mary
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Continuing improvement!
Hi Everyone!
My last post was following the 2nd to last event on the Futures Tour. Since then, I have played in 3 events: The Duramed Futures Tour I LOVE NY Championship, the Pacific Ladies Tour Q School Classic and the First Stage of LPGA Qualifying. Here are some details..
I made the short drive north to Albany, NY for the final event of the Duramed Futures Tour season. The tour was going "all out" for the last event. Typically the greens start out slow at the beginning of the week and by tournament time they speed them up. They were quick from the get go! I enjoy playing courses that setup difficult and when par is a good score so I was excited about the conditioning and layout of the course.
I prepared well playing practice rounds with fellow New Englanders Lynn Valentine and Kim Augusta, among others. I have known Lynn since college days when we competed against one another. She paid me a nice compliment during our practice rounds saying how well I was hitting the ball and how solid my swing was looking. I knew these things in my heart, and from the feedback I was getting from my coach and friends that I play with, but to hear it from a competitor was very affirming!
I drew an afternoon tee time the first day and shot 77 in windy conditions. It put me just about in the middle of the pack. I had three birdies on the day and played pretty solid except for a few swings. The second round I was paired with one of my former Florida players, Sam White. Her mom Nancy caddied for her so it was fun day for me. I started out hot with a birdie on the first hole but a couple of three putts forced me to post a few bogeys. After a 2nd round 79 I was disappointed to miss the cut, although encouraged by the number of birdies I was making. 3 birdies both rounds! Also, a big thanks to Tom and Nan Lanahan for a great week in Albany. I enjoyed getting to know them and really enjoyed their comfortable home.
A few days later, after returning to New Haven for some Yale duties and packing, I left for toasty Palm Desert, CA. I decided to compete in a "low key" mini tour event on the Pacific Coast Ladies Tour called the Q-school Classic. After flying out and arriving on a Wednesday afternoon I teed it up on Thursday morning. I shot 76 the first round with 2 birdies and 29 putts for the day. Not bad considering I had not played desert golf in awhile! The second round I limped to an 82. Although I had 2 birdies on the day too many bogeys were posted. 35 putts was the killer stat but it was good to know what I needed to work on to prepare for the LPGA qualifying that was ahead.
A few days later, after returning to New Haven for some Yale duties and packing, I left for toasty Palm Desert, CA. I decided to compete in a "low key" mini tour event on the Pacific Coast Ladies Tour called the Q-school Classic. After flying out and arriving on a Wednesday afternoon I teed it up on Thursday morning. I shot 76 the first round with 2 birdies and 29 putts for the day. Not bad considering I had not played desert golf in awhile! The second round I limped to an 82. Although I had 2 birdies on the day too many bogeys were posted. 35 putts was the killer stat but it was good to know what I needed to work on to prepare for the LPGA qualifying that was ahead.
As I continued to prepare I became more comfortable with the terrain and conditions. I had figured out a good hydration regimen (being from the east coast and more humid climates, the desert is truly a different experience) and began to better understand the greens. Although it is subtle, everything in Palm Desert breaks towards the lowest point, which is Indio. Keeping this in mind, I teed it up for the 1st round of LPGA qualifying on the Arnold Palmer Course at Mission Hills. I shot a solid 3 over 75 with 2 birdies. My worst score on any given hole was bogey so it was a good start.
The 2nd round was on the Dinah Shore Course (the LPGA's first major of the year is always played here). I had a bit of a shaky start but finished my last 11 holes in even par to shoot a 5 over 77. I had 2 birdies on the day, which was encouraging, and only 29 putts. It was a pretty good day in light of a not so great start on the first few holes.
After two days of solid play I found myself 2 shots shy of making the cut. The good news is that my game is continuing to get stronger. I truly feel like with a little "polish" I will be shooting right around par more consistently. It was a great week with many thank you's to communicate. John and Joy Richards let me stay at their beautiful home in Rancho Mirage and Carol Hogan let me practice at her course, Desert Island, when I was looking for some peace and quiet. I left California very encouraged by my play and excited about my prospects for the "2nd try" coming up in Venice, FL from October 2-5th.
I am now in Venice preparing for the 2nd opportunity to qualify which begins next week. I have played the courses here before so it's all about getting familiar with them again. I tee it up tomorrow at 8:40am on the Plantation Bobcat Course. I am looking forward to playing and had a solid few days of preparation including a visit to Orlando to see my coach, Tom Garner. You can follow results on the LPGA website!
Until next time,
MM
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Another strong finish!!
Hi everyone!
I had a great week in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania at the Duramed Futures Tour Gettysburg Championship. I shot rounds of 72-76-81 over a challenging 6,425 yd layout. I made the cut and made a nice check. Making more steps in the right direction! Here are more details about the week...
The skies were dark and the air cool on Monday of tournament week. On this day of travel and rest I decided to take up my host, John Kuntzman, on the offer to take a special Gettysburg battlefield tour. John is a military history buff and former West Point Military history professor so I was glad to take him up on the offer! Being a history major myself I was very interested to learn more about the war and the impact it had upon our country. We drove around the city of Gettysburg and the battlefields, stopping to look at various monuments. We saw the site of the Gettysburg address and Little Roundtop among other interesting locations. What an interesting way to start the week...and only a preview of things to come...
Tuesday morning we woke up to pouring rain so an early morning practice round became a late morning 9 hole practice round. The Links at Gettysburg is over hilly terrain and pretty spread out so the enforced cart path only rule made it a long day. Plugged balls were the norm as were sloppy conditions. At this point we began to monitor the weather and saw that the rain would break by Thursday afternoon of tournament week and then it would get hot...in the 90's for the rest of the weekend. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday we were in long sleeves and by Friday back in shorts trying to hydrate and stay cool.
I teed off Friday morning and had a fast start. I hit my long hybrid club (about a 3 iron) into the #10 hole (I began play on the back nine) to two feet or so. It's nice to start off the round with a birdie! I backed up the birdie with par, bogey, par and then the fun began. I rattled off 4 birdies to finish up the front 9 at 3 under par (33). I was having a blast. My caddy, Matt, and I were reading breaks and picking spots and I was simply trusting the lines and stroking the putter confidently. I backed up the front nine score with a 3 over 39 on the back nine to finish at even par 72.
Saturday afternoon rolled around and it was time to tee off for round two. Standing in a tie for 12th place I had an afternoon tee time. After playing 8 holes we began to hear rumbles of thunder and lightening bolts. The horn sounded and we headed in to allow the storm to pass. It turned into an all day affair and play was called with a 7am completion of round two on Sunday morning followed by the final round in the afternoon.
I completed round two posting a 76 followed by a final round 81 on Sunday afternoon. Sunday was a marathon playing 27 holes in hot weather and a great learning experience for me. I have gained so much confidence from my recent results and feel well equipped and capable to compete in our upcoming Duramed Futures Tour ILOVE NY Championship and in the LPGA Qualifying that follows. Be sure to follow my results on the LPGA and Duramed Futures Tour websites!
Many thanks to my Mom and my Aunt Joann for coming to watch me this past week. My family continues to provide me tremendous support in addition to my swing coach, sport psychologist, club fitter and trainer. I have a great team that I am very thankful for.
After a few days in Orlando with Tom fine tuning my short and long game I am ready to head north to Albany and finish the season strong. Check back for more updates soon. I hope you enjoy the picture of me with the Civil War re-enactors from Gettysburg!
MM
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Housing in Palm Desert, California
Hi friends,
Just a quick post to put feelers out for housing. I am traveling west to Palm Desert, CA/Rancho Mirage to play in the LPGA Qualifying tournament from September 12-22nd at Mission Hills Country Club. My FANTASTIC housing from last year has downsized :( so I am in need of finding a place to stay. If anyone has any suggestions for afordable accomodations, housesits or willing hosts for the 10 days please let me know. You can contact me at marymoan@hotmail.com.
Thanks!!!
MM
Just a quick post to put feelers out for housing. I am traveling west to Palm Desert, CA/Rancho Mirage to play in the LPGA Qualifying tournament from September 12-22nd at Mission Hills Country Club. My FANTASTIC housing from last year has downsized :( so I am in need of finding a place to stay. If anyone has any suggestions for afordable accomodations, housesits or willing hosts for the 10 days please let me know. You can contact me at marymoan@hotmail.com.
Thanks!!!
MM
Saturday, August 18, 2007
GREAT NEWS from the Massachusetts Open!!!
Hi everyone,
Well, all the hard work is beginning to pay off!! I finished 4th at the Mass Open this week at Ipswich Country Club in Ipswich, Massachusetts. Check out the results and my hole by hole scores.
Highlights include:
The first round I had 2 birdies including a great up and down on 18 from 70 yds to a blind pin. I hit 12 greens this round and got up and down 4 times in 4 attempts! My 2 over round of 75 put me in the thick of things.
The second round was a round of "resilience." After a solid par on the 1st hole I double bogeyed the 2nd hole. I hung in there and made 3 pars in a row followed by a birdie. The 8th hole ate my lunch and resulted in a double bogey but I rebounded by chipping in for birdie on #9. I played a solid 1 under par on the back nine to finish with a 74!
I feel the difference maker is a combination of things. First of all, my swing work with Tom Garner has allowed me to confidently hit the shots under pressure that I need depending upon the situation. Secondly, my visualization and relaxation work with Dr. Fabbri have helped me deal with the moment and the task at hand. I have an appetite to play and cannot wait for the next opportunity!
I feel like my focus is sharper these days and I am able to put aside the peripheral, the things I cannot control. So many things happen on the road that can distract (including delayed golf clubs on the way to Boston courtesy of Jet Blue!) and I have found myself steadfastly focused on what I can control. Going through these experiences have made me stronger and I believe, more equipped for the events that are ahead including LPGA and Futures Tour qualifying opportunities.
For those of you who follow my results on the Duramed Futures Tour website I wanted to let you know of my withdrawal this week from the event in Queenstown, MD. We returned from Boston late on Wednesday, August 15th and spent Thursday the 16th practicing and getting ready to compete from the 17th-19th. About once a month I get a massage and I definitely needed one after all the driving and traveling so that was in our plan for Thursday afternoon. Well, the massage was great until I woke up the next morning with spasms in my left shoulder and back. I played on Friday but by the 5th and 6th holes I knew something was not right. I am doing fine and treating the symptoms and resting but felt it best to withdraw so to be able to compete this coming week in Gettysburg, PA as well as the rest of the season. It's hard to back down when you're playing well but in this case I knew I had to listen to my body.
Thanks for your support! I will keep you posted on upcoming results.
MM
Well, all the hard work is beginning to pay off!! I finished 4th at the Mass Open this week at Ipswich Country Club in Ipswich, Massachusetts. Check out the results and my hole by hole scores.
Highlights include:
The first round I had 2 birdies including a great up and down on 18 from 70 yds to a blind pin. I hit 12 greens this round and got up and down 4 times in 4 attempts! My 2 over round of 75 put me in the thick of things.
The second round was a round of "resilience." After a solid par on the 1st hole I double bogeyed the 2nd hole. I hung in there and made 3 pars in a row followed by a birdie. The 8th hole ate my lunch and resulted in a double bogey but I rebounded by chipping in for birdie on #9. I played a solid 1 under par on the back nine to finish with a 74!
I feel the difference maker is a combination of things. First of all, my swing work with Tom Garner has allowed me to confidently hit the shots under pressure that I need depending upon the situation. Secondly, my visualization and relaxation work with Dr. Fabbri have helped me deal with the moment and the task at hand. I have an appetite to play and cannot wait for the next opportunity!
I feel like my focus is sharper these days and I am able to put aside the peripheral, the things I cannot control. So many things happen on the road that can distract (including delayed golf clubs on the way to Boston courtesy of Jet Blue!) and I have found myself steadfastly focused on what I can control. Going through these experiences have made me stronger and I believe, more equipped for the events that are ahead including LPGA and Futures Tour qualifying opportunities.
For those of you who follow my results on the Duramed Futures Tour website I wanted to let you know of my withdrawal this week from the event in Queenstown, MD. We returned from Boston late on Wednesday, August 15th and spent Thursday the 16th practicing and getting ready to compete from the 17th-19th. About once a month I get a massage and I definitely needed one after all the driving and traveling so that was in our plan for Thursday afternoon. Well, the massage was great until I woke up the next morning with spasms in my left shoulder and back. I played on Friday but by the 5th and 6th holes I knew something was not right. I am doing fine and treating the symptoms and resting but felt it best to withdraw so to be able to compete this coming week in Gettysburg, PA as well as the rest of the season. It's hard to back down when you're playing well but in this case I knew I had to listen to my body.
Thanks for your support! I will keep you posted on upcoming results.
MM
Monday, August 6, 2007
New Hampshire wrap-up
Hi everyone,
I made the trip from New Haven to Concord, NH to play in this past week's Duramed Futures Tour USI Championship at Beaver Meadow Golf Club. It was a good week played in hot temperatures. I shot rounds of 77-80 over two rounds and was encouraged by my ability to recover from a a few bad shots and my over 50% up and down saves the 1st round. I also had the privelege of playing in the Pro-am this week which paired me up with 4 amateurs. Thanks to Peter, Rich, Stephanie and Vera for a great day!
This week the tour sponsored a trivia contest at a local brew pub, The Barley House. We received vouchers to eat and drink their great fare and we competed in their trivia contest. Do you know who has hosted Saturday Night Live the most times? Hint...he's wild and crazy...Although we didn't win the BIG PRIZE (tickets to the upcoming PGA Tour event in Boston) we did have a lot of fun. I did go back to the Barley House later in the week to use our complimentary gift certificate :)
I also caught up with good friend and former coaching colleague, Gina Yoder. She drove down from Hanover, NH where she is an assistant professional at Hanover CC (the course at Dartmouth College). It was great to see her and spend some time together. I also enjoyed getting to know my host family, the Berger's. Peter, Ellen, JT & Drew made me feel very at home. The meals, conversation and great accomodations made for a very comfortable week.
After a meeting with Dr. Fabbri this morning, assessing my weekend rounds and passing along my stats to Coach Tom Garner, I am prepared for a good week. I truly feel like results are in my grasp (although my focus remains on the process) and I am coming to understand what I need to do to prepare and relax so to play my best. I am off to Morgantown, WV and will be picking up good friend Joanna Whitley on the way as I travel through Harrisburg, PA. Looking forward to traveling with her for the next three weeks and four events ahead.
Hope to see you lining the fairways at any of my upcoming events. Tickets can always be had so please let me know if you would like to attend!
West Virginia, here I come!
MM
I made the trip from New Haven to Concord, NH to play in this past week's Duramed Futures Tour USI Championship at Beaver Meadow Golf Club. It was a good week played in hot temperatures. I shot rounds of 77-80 over two rounds and was encouraged by my ability to recover from a a few bad shots and my over 50% up and down saves the 1st round. I also had the privelege of playing in the Pro-am this week which paired me up with 4 amateurs. Thanks to Peter, Rich, Stephanie and Vera for a great day!
This week the tour sponsored a trivia contest at a local brew pub, The Barley House. We received vouchers to eat and drink their great fare and we competed in their trivia contest. Do you know who has hosted Saturday Night Live the most times? Hint...he's wild and crazy...Although we didn't win the BIG PRIZE (tickets to the upcoming PGA Tour event in Boston) we did have a lot of fun. I did go back to the Barley House later in the week to use our complimentary gift certificate :)
I also caught up with good friend and former coaching colleague, Gina Yoder. She drove down from Hanover, NH where she is an assistant professional at Hanover CC (the course at Dartmouth College). It was great to see her and spend some time together. I also enjoyed getting to know my host family, the Berger's. Peter, Ellen, JT & Drew made me feel very at home. The meals, conversation and great accomodations made for a very comfortable week.
After a meeting with Dr. Fabbri this morning, assessing my weekend rounds and passing along my stats to Coach Tom Garner, I am prepared for a good week. I truly feel like results are in my grasp (although my focus remains on the process) and I am coming to understand what I need to do to prepare and relax so to play my best. I am off to Morgantown, WV and will be picking up good friend Joanna Whitley on the way as I travel through Harrisburg, PA. Looking forward to traveling with her for the next three weeks and four events ahead.
Hope to see you lining the fairways at any of my upcoming events. Tickets can always be had so please let me know if you would like to attend!
West Virginia, here I come!
MM
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Scenes from the journey
With my caddy Butch at the
Syracuse event (July)
Before a practice round in Canada (June)
Helping with Special Olympics at
Southern CT State University (June)
Having a great time with Golf teammates at Princeton Reunions
With teammate Jeff Moriarty at Princeton
alumni tournament
Catching up with friend & roommate Ashley (Puckhaber) Shine at Princeton Reunions (May)
Ladies Tournament Series event at Deer Island CC (March)
Taking in the local culture-Lafayette, LA
Futures (April)
Golf with my cousin, Eddie Moan, in Orlando
(March)
(March)
Hi everyone!
The summer is flying by! I wanted to give you an update as to how I am doing.
Since early May I have played in a number of events including Futures tour events in St. Anne, IL (just south of Chicago), Bloomfield, CT & Syracuse, NY. I also traveled to Rhode Island (New England Open), Kensington, CT (CT Open) and Barrie, Ontario (Canadian Tour). I had a strong finish just this past weekend in Syracuse shooting rounds of 74-77. I am looking to build on the momentum and confidence I gained during this event. I had the opportunity to play with the current #4 money winner on tour who has won twice this season. I held my own against her (we finished one stroke apart) and it was encouraging to me to know first hand that I can compete with the best on tour!
It has been an eventful few months but very fruitful ones as well. I am finally beginning to get settled with some of the swing changes I have made with coach, Tom Garner, and I feel like my shoulder is also feeling good. I have 5 more Futures events and looking forward to getting into the routine of being on the road the next few weeks. I will be traveling to Concord, NH, Morgantown, WV, Queenstown, MD & Gettysburg, PA in four consecutive weeks followed by the labor day week off. Our final event is in Albany, NY following the holiday. I will also be squeezing in a trip to the Mass Open between the WV & MD events. I have had 3 strong finishes there over the past 3 years (low amateur in 2004, 6th in 2005 & 4th in 2006) so I am making the trip even though it is going to be a lot of travel in a week's time.
In between the playing, practice and workouts I have been keeping busy in a number of ways. I am enjoying my part-time duties at the Course at Yale helping with our outings as well as instruction with the First Tee & Special Olympics in New Haven. I had also had some time to help the Yale women's coach, Chawwadee Rompothong, with a clinic for the Course at Yale women members as well as a clinic for visiting Chinese scholars. I recently helped to coordinate a beach day for young inner city New Haven kids through my church. These outlets have helped me keep a balance.
I am heading into the rest of the season with great confidence. I am seeing development in my course management and confidence. In addition, I am excited about my recent decision to begin working with a local sport psychologist who was recommended to me. You can read more about Dr. Fabbri using the link under my favorites. Take a look at the section titled Mental Training for Competitive Athletes. I truly believe this time of development will soon grown into outstanding results.
Thank you for your support, encouragement and faith in my talents and abilities. I hope you enjoy some selected pictures from my travels. Hope you enjoy the photos!
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Friday's tee time-Futures Hartford, CT
Hi Friends,
Hope some of you can come see me play this weekend! I tee off at 8:27am off the #10 tee tomorrow, Friday, July 13th. I have a great caddy lined up...the #1 superintendent in the country of the #1 College Golf Course in the country (I am not making either statistic up!), Scott Ramsey of the Yale Golf Course. He gets a break from his duties at Yale (although I have a feeling he might make the drive down to New Haven in the afternoon...).
My plan is to play the rest of the Futures season and then head off to LPGA qualifying. That will keep me busy until mid-October!
Now that I have a functioning computer and internet on the road I should be able to share more recent updates.
I am looking forward to a great weekend on the links in my own backyard! Will keep you posted,
MM
Hope some of you can come see me play this weekend! I tee off at 8:27am off the #10 tee tomorrow, Friday, July 13th. I have a great caddy lined up...the #1 superintendent in the country of the #1 College Golf Course in the country (I am not making either statistic up!), Scott Ramsey of the Yale Golf Course. He gets a break from his duties at Yale (although I have a feeling he might make the drive down to New Haven in the afternoon...).
My plan is to play the rest of the Futures season and then head off to LPGA qualifying. That will keep me busy until mid-October!
Now that I have a functioning computer and internet on the road I should be able to share more recent updates.
I am looking forward to a great weekend on the links in my own backyard! Will keep you posted,
MM
Monday, May 28, 2007
update to come soon-I promise!
Hi Friends,
It has been a BUSY month or so. I promise to update you soon. The recent highlight was I was one stroke away from proceeding to the sectional US Open qualifying. I shot 80 in the local qualifier and missed a playoff for one of the last 5 spots by one. A heartbreaker but there has been real progress in my game.
Here's a teaser to what's ahead (news from the last few months):
Trips to Orlando; Lafayette, Louisiana; El Paso, Texas...A LONG solo drive from Jacksonville Beach, Florida to New Haven, Connecticut...
News about the new coach I am working with...
And, finally, I will be reporting scores from the Connecticut and New England Opens which will be contested this week (May 29-30) & June 4-5 (New England at Weekapaug GC in Westerly, Rhode Island). Come and watch if you are local!!!
You can follow results at www.csgalinks.org & www.nepga.com.
I have been working hard, settling into my new home in New Haven and position at the Yale Golf Course and preparing for the next month of events. More later :)
Mary
It has been a BUSY month or so. I promise to update you soon. The recent highlight was I was one stroke away from proceeding to the sectional US Open qualifying. I shot 80 in the local qualifier and missed a playoff for one of the last 5 spots by one. A heartbreaker but there has been real progress in my game.
Here's a teaser to what's ahead (news from the last few months):
Trips to Orlando; Lafayette, Louisiana; El Paso, Texas...A LONG solo drive from Jacksonville Beach, Florida to New Haven, Connecticut...
News about the new coach I am working with...
And, finally, I will be reporting scores from the Connecticut and New England Opens which will be contested this week (May 29-30) & June 4-5 (New England at Weekapaug GC in Westerly, Rhode Island). Come and watch if you are local!!!
You can follow results at www.csgalinks.org & www.nepga.com.
I have been working hard, settling into my new home in New Haven and position at the Yale Golf Course and preparing for the next month of events. More later :)
Mary
Sunday, April 15, 2007
getting back to business!
Hi Friends,
I have had a busy few weeks between practice and a trip north for a doctor's visit, Easter and making summer plans. I also have two events coming up in the next two weeks that I am really looking forward to. Here's a quick re-cap and a look ahead...
On Wednesday, April 4th I flew north from Jacksonville to New York, NY. My first stop was my club fitters, Custom Golf of Connecticut. It was time to get my clubs checked out and see if there was any new technology that I could take advantage of. I had spoken with my fitter over the past year, Max Miller, about changing irons and he felt it was time but we wanted to make sure I had a few months of playing and practice under my belt, post-surgery. He fitted me to the new Taylor Made Burner HT, a new driver on the market this year. I LOVE IT! Within a few days it arrived at the TPC and I have been playing with it for a few days. My carry yardage is longer, I hit it higher and stronger which translates into MORE DISTANCE. What golfer doesn't want more distance? I also hit some of the newest irons on the market, products manufactured by Mizuno, Callaway, Taylor Made and others. I ended up in an updated iron very similar to what I currently play, the Ping G5 . I have been playing the Ping I3 for the past 7 years so it's a pretty similar feel and look. The irons are on the way and I hope they arrive tomorrow so that I can play with them in my next event. I am also carrying my irons an average of 10 yards further! Very fun! Max also switched my ball to the Callaway HX Tour 56. I used to play with the HX Tour Black so this is a very simliar feeling ball.
After the fitting extravaganza I headed to New Haven to stop by the Yale Golf Course. It was good to see my friends and colleagues. While I was north I finalized a position to work as Assistant Coordinator for Golf Outings and Outreach at the Yale Golf Course. I will be involved with the outings and teaching programs at the Yale Golf Course on a part-time basis while I am up north for the summer. It is a great opportunity to remain involved in the golf business and the Yale community. I think it's going to be a nice compliment to my playing career. I already got to work by helping with rules at the Yale Men's Spring Invitational.
I also found a place to live for the summer in Hamden, Connecticut, centrally located from downtown New Haven and the Yale Golf Course. I will be sharing my living space with 3 cats and a very cool woman named Laurie. She has a beautiful home and I am excited for the change of scenery.
If that wasn't enough running around I made it up to Avon to see my trainer/physical therapist Brian Magna for 2 pliates classes and a revision of my personal training workout. I also checked in with my doctor and he is pleased with results from a recent MRI and x-ray. My surgery did correct the issues I had in my shoulder although he did find a spot of tendonitis in my rotator cuff. I have been modifying my practice this last week or so and visiting with my Jacksonville physical therapist, Matt Serlo. I was just experiencing some lingering soreness but am really pleased with my progress (as is my therapist). I am ready to get on the road again and compete!
While up north I enjoyed my time staying with Jim and JoAnn Kupiec at their beautiful home in Madison, Connecticut. They fed me well, let me watch the final round of the Masters (I love watching the Majors) and I enjoyed the companionship of their yellow lab, Comet. We attended Easter service together and shared a meal at our friend Dan Deacon's. It was a nice and relaxing break from the busyness of my trip.
I returned to Jacksonville and have been practicing so to get ready for two upcoming events. It has been nice warm weather here but very windy. I don't mind because it makes me feel more comfortable when I encounter windy conditions in competition. To give you an idea about how windy it is here I was on the chipping green yesterday and one of the tents that the TPC Tour Academy uses to teach under (to stay out of the sun) blew away. Storms that produced tornadoes in Texas have moved east and brought wind and rain to the east coast. Looks like the PGA Tour event in Hilton Head, SC had a delay of play until Monday because of high winds. You haven't played in wind until you come to Florida!
On Tuesday, April 17th I am flying west for the Louisiana Pelican Classic an event in Lafayette, Louisiana on the Duramed Futures Tour. I will be flying in and out of Orlando so that I can play an event the following week in the Ladies Tournament Series at Errol Estates. Be sure to follow my results online!
More results and updates to come!
Mary
I have had a busy few weeks between practice and a trip north for a doctor's visit, Easter and making summer plans. I also have two events coming up in the next two weeks that I am really looking forward to. Here's a quick re-cap and a look ahead...
On Wednesday, April 4th I flew north from Jacksonville to New York, NY. My first stop was my club fitters, Custom Golf of Connecticut. It was time to get my clubs checked out and see if there was any new technology that I could take advantage of. I had spoken with my fitter over the past year, Max Miller, about changing irons and he felt it was time but we wanted to make sure I had a few months of playing and practice under my belt, post-surgery. He fitted me to the new Taylor Made Burner HT, a new driver on the market this year. I LOVE IT! Within a few days it arrived at the TPC and I have been playing with it for a few days. My carry yardage is longer, I hit it higher and stronger which translates into MORE DISTANCE. What golfer doesn't want more distance? I also hit some of the newest irons on the market, products manufactured by Mizuno, Callaway, Taylor Made and others. I ended up in an updated iron very similar to what I currently play, the Ping G5 . I have been playing the Ping I3 for the past 7 years so it's a pretty similar feel and look. The irons are on the way and I hope they arrive tomorrow so that I can play with them in my next event. I am also carrying my irons an average of 10 yards further! Very fun! Max also switched my ball to the Callaway HX Tour 56. I used to play with the HX Tour Black so this is a very simliar feeling ball.
After the fitting extravaganza I headed to New Haven to stop by the Yale Golf Course. It was good to see my friends and colleagues. While I was north I finalized a position to work as Assistant Coordinator for Golf Outings and Outreach at the Yale Golf Course. I will be involved with the outings and teaching programs at the Yale Golf Course on a part-time basis while I am up north for the summer. It is a great opportunity to remain involved in the golf business and the Yale community. I think it's going to be a nice compliment to my playing career. I already got to work by helping with rules at the Yale Men's Spring Invitational.
I also found a place to live for the summer in Hamden, Connecticut, centrally located from downtown New Haven and the Yale Golf Course. I will be sharing my living space with 3 cats and a very cool woman named Laurie. She has a beautiful home and I am excited for the change of scenery.
If that wasn't enough running around I made it up to Avon to see my trainer/physical therapist Brian Magna for 2 pliates classes and a revision of my personal training workout. I also checked in with my doctor and he is pleased with results from a recent MRI and x-ray. My surgery did correct the issues I had in my shoulder although he did find a spot of tendonitis in my rotator cuff. I have been modifying my practice this last week or so and visiting with my Jacksonville physical therapist, Matt Serlo. I was just experiencing some lingering soreness but am really pleased with my progress (as is my therapist). I am ready to get on the road again and compete!
While up north I enjoyed my time staying with Jim and JoAnn Kupiec at their beautiful home in Madison, Connecticut. They fed me well, let me watch the final round of the Masters (I love watching the Majors) and I enjoyed the companionship of their yellow lab, Comet. We attended Easter service together and shared a meal at our friend Dan Deacon's. It was a nice and relaxing break from the busyness of my trip.
I returned to Jacksonville and have been practicing so to get ready for two upcoming events. It has been nice warm weather here but very windy. I don't mind because it makes me feel more comfortable when I encounter windy conditions in competition. To give you an idea about how windy it is here I was on the chipping green yesterday and one of the tents that the TPC Tour Academy uses to teach under (to stay out of the sun) blew away. Storms that produced tornadoes in Texas have moved east and brought wind and rain to the east coast. Looks like the PGA Tour event in Hilton Head, SC had a delay of play until Monday because of high winds. You haven't played in wind until you come to Florida!
On Tuesday, April 17th I am flying west for the Louisiana Pelican Classic an event in Lafayette, Louisiana on the Duramed Futures Tour. I will be flying in and out of Orlando so that I can play an event the following week in the Ladies Tournament Series at Errol Estates. Be sure to follow my results online!
More results and updates to come!
Mary
Saturday, March 24, 2007
update through the Tampa Futures event
Hi Friends,
*Note...I did not add the pictures yet..coming soon*
I learned a few days before the Tampa Futures event that I had gained a spot in the field! Yippee! I drove north and west from Port St. Lucie on Tuesday, March 14th to begin my week. It was a challenging week characterized by rain delays and a windswept golf course. If you watched the Saturday coverage of the PGA Tour event at Bay Hill that will give you an idea of the conditions we played in.
The week began on Tuesday with a mandatory player meeting where we learned about "branding" ourselves. It was interesting and informational session about how to gain sponsors based on our personalities and character traits. It was also announced that just a day earlier one of the players who had graduated to the LPGA tour from the Futures Tour, Meaghan Francella, had just beat Annika in a playoff in Mexico! What a testimony to the competitiveness of our tour. Needless to say, I am soaking up every minute of my experiences, even if the results are not quite what I am expecting.
On Tuesday evening we had a required "Meet the Pros party." I have included a few pictures from the evening. The first picture is of my friend Nicole Mytyk (on left) and a fellow player Christine Boucher. Nicole is a close friend from my days in Gainesville. It was wonderful to see her and catch up that evening as she recently moved to Sarasota to accept a job with....Christine is a Canadian player who I shared housing with in Lakeland. We had a great time meeting some of the sponsors for the event and enjoying some good food. As you can see Chik Fil-A was a sponsor of the event and I was lucky enough to get my picture taken with their famous cow.
I played two practice rounds one with my friend Yu-jin Bang...and another with fellow Nutmeg state resident, Lynn Valentine. I had a late tee time for Friday's first round so after practice and workout on Thursday I enjoyed a movie, dinner and relaxed by reading magazines and drinking coffee (decaf of course!) at a local Barnes and Noble.
A morning rain delay on Friday march 16th pushed my 2pm tee time to after 3pm. It was an eventful round, trying to navigate the winds. To give you an idea of how gusty it was I had an interesting situation happen to me on the 4th hole. After teeing up my ball, taking a practice swing and setting up to hit my drive, I was mid-downswing and my ball fell off the tee. I could not stop my downswing and I hit the ball while it was falling off the tee. That had never happened to me before! Good news was there was no penalty (I stumped the rules official and she had to take some time to find the rule...check out 11-2 if you are a rules nut) but I had to play the ball as it lies. I hit the par 4 in 3, hoping to make a 15 footer or so to save par but walked away with bogey.
Because of our late start we were rushing to finish 18 before dark. The rule on tour is that as long as one person has teed off before they blow the horn for darkness you can finish the hole if you choose (and if your fellow competitors want to quit and you want to keep going, that is ok too). Well, we were on 17 and one girl had putt out and we were urging her to get her driver and go to the 18th tee. Unfortunately, she was not quick enough so we returned early Saturday morning to play one hole at 8:15 and begin our second round at 9:33am. I enjoyed a quick dinner with my housing host, Linda Smith, and headed for bed to rest before a long day on Saturday.
Saturday March 17 was still windy but my results were a bit better. I finished strong with 2 over par on the back 9 with a nice birdie on the 15th and lipped out a chip for birdie on 16. The two days were "just hang in there" demanding conditions so I was glad to end on a positive note. Rounds of 85-80 didn't make the cut so I headed home Sunday morning.
I have had a productive week of practice in Jacksonville (March 19-24th) and have enjoyed visiting with my aunt who flew down for a visit. I am headed to Orlando tomorrow to play golf with my cousin, Eddie Moan and prepare to play in a Ladies Tournament Series event at Deer Island . Looking forward to a good week!
Some advice that I received from a trusted friend who is a very good amateur golfer is that *most* players make their living in a few strong finishes during a given season. A few top ten's, a top five, etc. Certainly, I aspire to play well consistently but it is important to find a way to find positives in an off week.
I will keep you posted!
Mary
*Note...I did not add the pictures yet..coming soon*
I learned a few days before the Tampa Futures event that I had gained a spot in the field! Yippee! I drove north and west from Port St. Lucie on Tuesday, March 14th to begin my week. It was a challenging week characterized by rain delays and a windswept golf course. If you watched the Saturday coverage of the PGA Tour event at Bay Hill that will give you an idea of the conditions we played in.
The week began on Tuesday with a mandatory player meeting where we learned about "branding" ourselves. It was interesting and informational session about how to gain sponsors based on our personalities and character traits. It was also announced that just a day earlier one of the players who had graduated to the LPGA tour from the Futures Tour, Meaghan Francella, had just beat Annika in a playoff in Mexico! What a testimony to the competitiveness of our tour. Needless to say, I am soaking up every minute of my experiences, even if the results are not quite what I am expecting.
On Tuesday evening we had a required "Meet the Pros party." I have included a few pictures from the evening. The first picture is of my friend Nicole Mytyk (on left) and a fellow player Christine Boucher. Nicole is a close friend from my days in Gainesville. It was wonderful to see her and catch up that evening as she recently moved to Sarasota to accept a job with....Christine is a Canadian player who I shared housing with in Lakeland. We had a great time meeting some of the sponsors for the event and enjoying some good food. As you can see Chik Fil-A was a sponsor of the event and I was lucky enough to get my picture taken with their famous cow.
I played two practice rounds one with my friend Yu-jin Bang...and another with fellow Nutmeg state resident, Lynn Valentine. I had a late tee time for Friday's first round so after practice and workout on Thursday I enjoyed a movie, dinner and relaxed by reading magazines and drinking coffee (decaf of course!) at a local Barnes and Noble.
A morning rain delay on Friday march 16th pushed my 2pm tee time to after 3pm. It was an eventful round, trying to navigate the winds. To give you an idea of how gusty it was I had an interesting situation happen to me on the 4th hole. After teeing up my ball, taking a practice swing and setting up to hit my drive, I was mid-downswing and my ball fell off the tee. I could not stop my downswing and I hit the ball while it was falling off the tee. That had never happened to me before! Good news was there was no penalty (I stumped the rules official and she had to take some time to find the rule...check out 11-2 if you are a rules nut) but I had to play the ball as it lies. I hit the par 4 in 3, hoping to make a 15 footer or so to save par but walked away with bogey.
Because of our late start we were rushing to finish 18 before dark. The rule on tour is that as long as one person has teed off before they blow the horn for darkness you can finish the hole if you choose (and if your fellow competitors want to quit and you want to keep going, that is ok too). Well, we were on 17 and one girl had putt out and we were urging her to get her driver and go to the 18th tee. Unfortunately, she was not quick enough so we returned early Saturday morning to play one hole at 8:15 and begin our second round at 9:33am. I enjoyed a quick dinner with my housing host, Linda Smith, and headed for bed to rest before a long day on Saturday.
Saturday March 17 was still windy but my results were a bit better. I finished strong with 2 over par on the back 9 with a nice birdie on the 15th and lipped out a chip for birdie on 16. The two days were "just hang in there" demanding conditions so I was glad to end on a positive note. Rounds of 85-80 didn't make the cut so I headed home Sunday morning.
I have had a productive week of practice in Jacksonville (March 19-24th) and have enjoyed visiting with my aunt who flew down for a visit. I am headed to Orlando tomorrow to play golf with my cousin, Eddie Moan and prepare to play in a Ladies Tournament Series event at Deer Island . Looking forward to a good week!
Some advice that I received from a trusted friend who is a very good amateur golfer is that *most* players make their living in a few strong finishes during a given season. A few top ten's, a top five, etc. Certainly, I aspire to play well consistently but it is important to find a way to find positives in an off week.
I will keep you posted!
Mary
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Futures update and recent results
Hi friends,
On Tuesday, March 6th I stopped in Orlando on my way to Lakeland to play a Moonlight Tour event at Windermere CC. I placed 3rd with a 77. It was fun as they sped up the greens and tucked the pins in some interesting places. Thanks to the Greenwald's for hosting me for an evening and cooking a wonderful steak dinner!
Following the event at Windermere I traveled to Lakeland and prepared to play in the first Duramed Futures Tour event but was 3rd alternate. The first few events are very popular on tour as many of the players base themselves in Florida so I may be on the fence for the beginning of the season. I am 3rd alternate for the Greater Tampa Duramed Futures Classic and will travel to the site this week, hoping for a few to withdraw. Although I did not get in this week it was very good for me to be in Lakeland to acclimate to playing on tour again. I cannot emphasize enough (and this is something I told my players when I was coaching), being comfortable with the atmosphere is so important.
This is the last week that I will do the "wait and see" plan. There is a new tour simply called the Ladies Tournament Series in the Orlando area that runs three day events with no cuts for a reasonable entry fee. The fields are small but the competition is good so I may sign up for a few of these events if I am still on alternate lists. My former player, Jeehae, won her first professional event on this tour so congratulations to her! You can check out the schedule for more information. I am considering playing the upcoming events at Deer Island, Forest Lake & Errol Estates.
As you can tell the life of a professional golfer is always in fluctuation :). I have learned to go with the flow and simply roll with the changes. I am currently in Port St. Lucie to practice for a few days before I head to Tampa. I will keep you posted on my always changing schedule!
Until next time,
Mary
On Tuesday, March 6th I stopped in Orlando on my way to Lakeland to play a Moonlight Tour event at Windermere CC. I placed 3rd with a 77. It was fun as they sped up the greens and tucked the pins in some interesting places. Thanks to the Greenwald's for hosting me for an evening and cooking a wonderful steak dinner!
Following the event at Windermere I traveled to Lakeland and prepared to play in the first Duramed Futures Tour event but was 3rd alternate. The first few events are very popular on tour as many of the players base themselves in Florida so I may be on the fence for the beginning of the season. I am 3rd alternate for the Greater Tampa Duramed Futures Classic and will travel to the site this week, hoping for a few to withdraw. Although I did not get in this week it was very good for me to be in Lakeland to acclimate to playing on tour again. I cannot emphasize enough (and this is something I told my players when I was coaching), being comfortable with the atmosphere is so important.
This is the last week that I will do the "wait and see" plan. There is a new tour simply called the Ladies Tournament Series in the Orlando area that runs three day events with no cuts for a reasonable entry fee. The fields are small but the competition is good so I may sign up for a few of these events if I am still on alternate lists. My former player, Jeehae, won her first professional event on this tour so congratulations to her! You can check out the schedule for more information. I am considering playing the upcoming events at Deer Island, Forest Lake & Errol Estates.
As you can tell the life of a professional golfer is always in fluctuation :). I have learned to go with the flow and simply roll with the changes. I am currently in Port St. Lucie to practice for a few days before I head to Tampa. I will keep you posted on my always changing schedule!
Until next time,
Mary
Sunday, March 4, 2007
Running marathons
Hi friends,
Sorry it has taken so long for an update. I hope you enjoy some of the pictures!
I spent a few productive days working on my game at TJ's. We worked hard on my short game and transitioning from mechanics to feel. I have included a picture of the two of us after an afternoon session.
After working with TJ for a few days I drove north to Orlando to prepare for the Florida Women's Open. It was my first three day event post-surgery and I am happy to report that my shoulder reacted well to all the play and practice. My rust showed a bit but it was good to get back into play mode for an event that was more than one day. I shot rounds of 80-79-82. It's a place to start from and I can't wait to play next and 
improve upon this result. TJ and June also came up for a day to watch and took some great pictures of me on the course. The important thing for TJ was to see how my swing/course management was under pressure. I definitely learned a lot. A friend keeps reminding me that my journey is a MARATHON and not a sprint. I have an exciting season ahead and plenty more golf to play! All the ingredients are in place and soon the results will follow. I have included a picture of great form while teeing off.
improve upon this result. TJ and June also came up for a day to watch and took some great pictures of me on the course. The important thing for TJ was to see how my swing/course management was under pressure. I definitely learned a lot. A friend keeps reminding me that my journey is a MARATHON and not a sprint. I have an exciting season ahead and plenty more golf to play! All the ingredients are in place and soon the results will follow. I have included a picture of great form while teeing off.I had many "fans" visit me this week. My mom traveled south for a few days along with my friend Jim Turner and my sister in-law parents, Gary and Betsy Calsin. One of the wonderful things about traveling is meeting new friends and get re-acquainted with old ones. THANK YOU for supporting me!
After a few days at home, some rest, and ALOT of needed car maintenance, I am in Orlando again. I will be on the road the next three weeks hopefully doing a lot of competing on the Duramed Futures Tour. I am still an alternate for the Lakeland event next week and the Tampa event the following week but I am high enough on the list that I am permitted to practice. So, I am in "wait and see" mode. In the meantime, I am playing at least one Moonlight Tour event and will keep you posted on my results and wait list status.
In other news I recently learned that Yale has offered me a part-time, 6 month position to become a member of the Yale Golf Course staff. I am excited about my continued relationship with the University and looking forward to working with many of my colleagues at the golf course. I am thankful for the opportunity and think the work I will be doing will only compliment my playing. I will return north sometime in April...hopefully spring will come quickly to New England this year!
I have included an additional picture for your enjoyment. The golf course picture is of Me, TJ, & Jeehae (Yale '06). We had a heated match that day! I will have news soon about my first Duramed Futures Tour event in Lakeland, Florida and Moonlight Tour results. Check back soon!
Pacing myself for the marathon,
Mary
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
A solid finish and upcoming events
Hi friends,
A quick post to let you know that I had a SOLID FINISH today at the Moonlight Tour event at Windermere CC in Windermere, Florida (outside of Orlando). I shot a 2 over par 74 and finished 3rd...a solid start to the season! It was fun because I putted well today and played pretty steady, solid golf. All pars, 3 bogies and 1 birdie. You can check out the Moonlight website but they don't post the training division results (you will just see a video of the winner's swing.) Here it is if you are intersted in checking it out: http://www.moonlightgolf.com/index.htm. Good news is that my earnings covered my entry fee so I broke even (well, who's counting gas and lunch :)! I also stayed with some new friends in Longwood for the past few days. I really enjoyed getting to know Faye & Jeff Greenwald. Jeff is a Princeton Tiger and both Faye and Jeff grew up in Englewood, New Jersey where I was born. Small world!
I am headed to play a practice round tomorrow at Rio Pinar CC which is where the Florida Women's Open will be held beginning the 28th. I am then making a quick trip to see TJ for a few days to work mostly on short game. We will be refining some of my shots and I am sure I will be learning some new ones also. Also, we are going to play on Friday so I will try to take some pictures to update the blog.
More soon!
Mary
A quick post to let you know that I had a SOLID FINISH today at the Moonlight Tour event at Windermere CC in Windermere, Florida (outside of Orlando). I shot a 2 over par 74 and finished 3rd...a solid start to the season! It was fun because I putted well today and played pretty steady, solid golf. All pars, 3 bogies and 1 birdie. You can check out the Moonlight website but they don't post the training division results (you will just see a video of the winner's swing.) Here it is if you are intersted in checking it out: http://www.moonlightgolf.com/index.htm. Good news is that my earnings covered my entry fee so I broke even (well, who's counting gas and lunch :)! I also stayed with some new friends in Longwood for the past few days. I really enjoyed getting to know Faye & Jeff Greenwald. Jeff is a Princeton Tiger and both Faye and Jeff grew up in Englewood, New Jersey where I was born. Small world!
I am headed to play a practice round tomorrow at Rio Pinar CC which is where the Florida Women's Open will be held beginning the 28th. I am then making a quick trip to see TJ for a few days to work mostly on short game. We will be refining some of my shots and I am sure I will be learning some new ones also. Also, we are going to play on Friday so I will try to take some pictures to update the blog.
More soon!
Mary
Sunday, February 18, 2007
Pablo Creek & Upcoming Tournament Dates
Hi Friends,
It has been a productive week of playing and practice. My week was capped off by being treated to play Pablo Creek, a course that I have heard about since the first day I moved to Jacksonville. It was a wonderful treat and some of the best (pure) greens that I have putted on in awhile (although tough to compare to Old Tabby Links at Spring Island..I have been spoiled lately!). The course itself was magnificant but it was also interesting to hear the history of the land and the story of the family who owned it. I guess the history major in me is still alive! Many thanks to my host Rusty Newton and his friend and fellow-member, Thad Eshelman, for treating me to a memorable day.
I enjoyed hearing many of your voices last evening when I called in to the Pampered Chef show! I am sure it was a blast.
As requested I am including a list of my upcoming events. I am also including dates and locations for my events in the northeast. I will revise dates and events as they change. Here goes:
Florida Women's Open Rio Pinar CC Orlando, FL February 26-28, 2007
Lakeland Duramed Futures Classic Cleveland Heights GC Lakeland, FL March 9-11, 2007
Greater Tampa Duramed Futures Classic Summerfield Crossings GC Riverview, FL March 16-18, 2007
Northeast events:
Connecticut Women's Open Shuttle Meadow CC Kensington, CT May 29-30, 2007
New England Women's Open Weekapaug GC Westerly, RI June 4-5, 2007
CIGNA Golf Classic Gillette Ridge GC Bloomfield, CT July 13-15, 2007
Massachusetts Women's Open Ispswich CC Ipswich, MA August 14-15, 2007
I am off to Orlando this week and will keep you posted on my prepration for the Florida Women's Open.
Mary
It has been a productive week of playing and practice. My week was capped off by being treated to play Pablo Creek, a course that I have heard about since the first day I moved to Jacksonville. It was a wonderful treat and some of the best (pure) greens that I have putted on in awhile (although tough to compare to Old Tabby Links at Spring Island..I have been spoiled lately!). The course itself was magnificant but it was also interesting to hear the history of the land and the story of the family who owned it. I guess the history major in me is still alive! Many thanks to my host Rusty Newton and his friend and fellow-member, Thad Eshelman, for treating me to a memorable day.
I enjoyed hearing many of your voices last evening when I called in to the Pampered Chef show! I am sure it was a blast.
As requested I am including a list of my upcoming events. I am also including dates and locations for my events in the northeast. I will revise dates and events as they change. Here goes:
Florida Women's Open Rio Pinar CC Orlando, FL February 26-28, 2007
Lakeland Duramed Futures Classic Cleveland Heights GC Lakeland, FL March 9-11, 2007
Greater Tampa Duramed Futures Classic Summerfield Crossings GC Riverview, FL March 16-18, 2007
Northeast events:
Connecticut Women's Open Shuttle Meadow CC Kensington, CT May 29-30, 2007
New England Women's Open Weekapaug GC Westerly, RI June 4-5, 2007
CIGNA Golf Classic Gillette Ridge GC Bloomfield, CT July 13-15, 2007
Massachusetts Women's Open Ispswich CC Ipswich, MA August 14-15, 2007
I am off to Orlando this week and will keep you posted on my prepration for the Florida Women's Open.
Mary
Sunday, February 11, 2007
Finding hope in second chances & Pampered Chef details
I had a productive 3 days visiting TJ this past week. We continued to make some slight changes and have been seeing some exciting results with my ball striking. I cannot wait to get out there and just PLAY and see all the changes come together on the course. The plan is to stay in Jax and practice this week and leave for Orlando next week to tune up for the Florida Women's Open February 26-28th.
It has struck me that it is a lot EASIER to do all of this the 2nd time around. I know where all the courses are located, what the layouts are and typically the conditions I will find (wind, type of terrain/grass, etc). My first three events are all at courses I have competed at so I have played at least one practice round at each plus competitive rounds. Travel is an "exciting" aspect of playing golf but can provide many unexpected twists (traffic, construction, sleeping in a different bed every week) that I believe you have to manage well. The more it becomes habit and part of your routine frees you up to just play and prepare to do your best. Needless to say, I am excited that my next 3 events are in familiar territory! I will keep you posted on my preparation and results.
As promised, here are more details about the upcoming Pampered Chef party that will be held at my friend Sam Wills' home. Our friend Hsin-Fu is driving north from Virginia Beach, VA to host the event with his proceeds going towards my career:
DATE: Saturday, February 17th
TIME: 7-9pm
PLACE: Home of Sam Wills
102 Perry Road, Hamden, CT 06514
Please RSVP to Sam at (978) 578-7410 or samantha.wills@sbcglobal.net so she can anticipate how much food to prepare
If you are unable to attend you can order products from the following website: http://www.pamperedchef.biz/wushouse?page=news-detail&featureId=774697
Thanks for reading and more updates soon!
MM
It has struck me that it is a lot EASIER to do all of this the 2nd time around. I know where all the courses are located, what the layouts are and typically the conditions I will find (wind, type of terrain/grass, etc). My first three events are all at courses I have competed at so I have played at least one practice round at each plus competitive rounds. Travel is an "exciting" aspect of playing golf but can provide many unexpected twists (traffic, construction, sleeping in a different bed every week) that I believe you have to manage well. The more it becomes habit and part of your routine frees you up to just play and prepare to do your best. Needless to say, I am excited that my next 3 events are in familiar territory! I will keep you posted on my preparation and results.
As promised, here are more details about the upcoming Pampered Chef party that will be held at my friend Sam Wills' home. Our friend Hsin-Fu is driving north from Virginia Beach, VA to host the event with his proceeds going towards my career:
DATE: Saturday, February 17th
TIME: 7-9pm
PLACE: Home of Sam Wills
102 Perry Road, Hamden, CT 06514
Please RSVP to Sam at (978) 578-7410 or samantha.wills@sbcglobal.net so she can anticipate how much food to prepare
If you are unable to attend you can order products from the following website: http://www.pamperedchef.biz/wushouse?page=news-detail&featureId=774697
Thanks for reading and more updates soon!
MM
Saturday, February 3, 2007
Back in the saddle again
Hi Friends, Family & Sponsors,
I am happy to report that I am back in Florida devoting my energy solely to playing and practicing again. I will give you a brief update of what has been going on in the last month and a way in which you can support my career. Keep reading :)....
I am happy to report that I am back in Florida devoting my energy solely to playing and practicing again. I will give you a brief update of what has been going on in the last month and a way in which you can support my career. Keep reading :)....
On the road again
A few days after the new year my friend Samantha Wills joined me for a Florida roadtrip. I had learned after a doctor's visit on December 20th that I was finally cleared to practice again! After my surgery on October 20th and 12 weeks of rehabilitation, I was able to make plans to return to Florida. Sam and I made overnight stops in Allentown, PA and Virginia Beach, VA on our way south. We enjoyed a home cooked meal at our friend Hsin-Fu Wu's home in VA Beach and were joined by my mom (she was also driving south) and another VA Beach friend, Phyllis Hoffman. We rose early the following morning to wrap up our ten hours south to our final destination-Jacksonville Beach.
A few days after the new year my friend Samantha Wills joined me for a Florida roadtrip. I had learned after a doctor's visit on December 20th that I was finally cleared to practice again! After my surgery on October 20th and 12 weeks of rehabilitation, I was able to make plans to return to Florida. Sam and I made overnight stops in Allentown, PA and Virginia Beach, VA on our way south. We enjoyed a home cooked meal at our friend Hsin-Fu Wu's home in VA Beach and were joined by my mom (she was also driving south) and another VA Beach friend, Phyllis Hoffman. We rose early the following morning to wrap up our ten hours south to our final destination-Jacksonville Beach.
Chez Tomasi
After a few days getting settled I got on the road again to head south to Port St. Lucie, chez Tomasi, to see my coach TJ and his wife June. We had a productive week and were pleased to see that post-surgery I was able to get in positions in my swing that I previously struggled with. We evaluated my swing in its current state and began to work on drills to continue re-enforcing good mechanics. By the end of the week I actually played my first 18 holes (although I hit all shots off a tee)...I was a bit uncoordinated at first but it was so wonderful to be out there again. I left TJ's with my drills in mind and a plan of attack as I returned to Jacksonville Beach (JB). TJ's indoor hitting area inspired me to construct an indoor hitting area of my own. I have found it really helpful to hit balls without being preoccupied with the ball flight and strictly focusing on the feel of the mechanics. You can see that my hitting area is multi-purpose (it's our enclosed porch), enjoyed by my cat Mr. Kitty (Picture 1)
After a few days getting settled I got on the road again to head south to Port St. Lucie, chez Tomasi, to see my coach TJ and his wife June. We had a productive week and were pleased to see that post-surgery I was able to get in positions in my swing that I previously struggled with. We evaluated my swing in its current state and began to work on drills to continue re-enforcing good mechanics. By the end of the week I actually played my first 18 holes (although I hit all shots off a tee)...I was a bit uncoordinated at first but it was so wonderful to be out there again. I left TJ's with my drills in mind and a plan of attack as I returned to Jacksonville Beach (JB). TJ's indoor hitting area inspired me to construct an indoor hitting area of my own. I have found it really helpful to hit balls without being preoccupied with the ball flight and strictly focusing on the feel of the mechanics. You can see that my hitting area is multi-purpose (it's our enclosed porch), enjoyed by my cat Mr. Kitty (Picture 1)
Leah Kelley's visit
I returned to JB and a few days later my friend Leah Kelley arrived for a visit. While she was here we took a half day to explore Jacksonville. We checked out the Cummer Museum (http://www.cummer.org/) and the Jacksonville Landing (http://www.jacksonvillelanding.com/). Of course, we stuffed our faces at a Mongolian bbq at the Landing and topped it off with ice cream from the local Cold Stone Creamery. Yumm!
After Leah's departure I had a few days to work on my mechanics, hit the range and get back into my practice routine. In addition, I continued my workout/pilates and physical therapy routine. Definitely keeping busy!
I returned to JB and a few days later my friend Leah Kelley arrived for a visit. While she was here we took a half day to explore Jacksonville. We checked out the Cummer Museum (http://www.cummer.org/) and the Jacksonville Landing (http://www.jacksonvillelanding.com/). Of course, we stuffed our faces at a Mongolian bbq at the Landing and topped it off with ice cream from the local Cold Stone Creamery. Yumm!
After Leah's departure I had a few days to work on my mechanics, hit the range and get back into my practice routine. In addition, I continued my workout/pilates and physical therapy routine. Definitely keeping busy!
PGA Merchandise Show
The last week of January was the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando. I traveled south again to the equipment demo day on Wednesday. I was able to try out all the latest equipment, which is always fun. I am in the market for new irons so I was able to get a sneak preview of all the new stuff.
The last week of January was the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando. I traveled south again to the equipment demo day on Wednesday. I was able to try out all the latest equipment, which is always fun. I am in the market for new irons so I was able to get a sneak preview of all the new stuff.
I had a productive time at the PGA Show connecting with potential equipment and clothing sponsors, colleagues in the golf business and some dear friends. It was especially fun to share housing with my friend Gina Yoder, a former coaching colleague, and my former assistant coach, Heidi Papoosha. We had a Yale past, present and future photo opportunity at the PGA Show including Heidi, Chawwadee Rompothong Yale '00 (also a former assistant of mine and the current Head Women's Coach at Yale) and Jeehae Lee Yale '06, a former player of mine who is also playing professionally (Picture 3). I am still learning the hang of this blog site but I hope you enjoy the pictures, regardless of my inability to place them correctly!
TJ gave a talk at the "Pros teaching the Pros" lunchtime forum. I am constantly learning from him and it was great to hear his presentation on a teacher to teacher level instead of a teacher to pupil level. His talk helped me to prepare for a clinic that I was to give just a few days later. You will see a picture of him in "teaching mode" above (Picture 2). He has a great website with tips and a list of his books. You can check it out at: http://www.golfwithtjtomasi.com/
Golf with Jeehae
I stayed a few extra days in Orlando and was able to play two rounds of golf with Jeehae. My touch was coming back quickly, which was encouraging. We played rounds at Forest Lake GC http://www.forestlakegolf.com/ and CC of Mt. Dora http://www.mtdoragolf.com/which are frequent Orlando stops for the NGA Hooters and Moonlight Tours. We had unseasonably cold weather the day we played at CC of Mt. Dora...I had on almost every layer I own! It does get cold in Florida!
I stayed a few extra days in Orlando and was able to play two rounds of golf with Jeehae. My touch was coming back quickly, which was encouraging. We played rounds at Forest Lake GC http://www.forestlakegolf.com/ and CC of Mt. Dora http://www.mtdoragolf.com/which are frequent Orlando stops for the NGA Hooters and Moonlight Tours. We had unseasonably cold weather the day we played at CC of Mt. Dora...I had on almost every layer I own! It does get cold in Florida!
Spring Island
Another focus that I continue to have while I get back into playing is building a support base. After I returned from Orlando my mom joined me in driving north to Spring Island, South Carolina to meet with various Ivy League alumni to share with them my plan to play over the next three years. We enjoyed the gracious hospitality of Bill and Penny Agnew (Princeton Tigers) who introduced us to many of the club members. I did a clinic on the driving range one afternoon and spoke about the 4 pillars of a champion (Equipment, Fitness/Nutrition, Golf Swing, Mental Game) but focused specifically on having a solid pre-shot routine. I got a lot of positive feedback and attribute much of the content of my clinic to my teaching mentors, including TJ and his writings in the book The 30 Second Swing. The day wrapped up with an opportunity for me to play with some of the members in attendance, present my "story" at a cocktail party hosted by the Agnew's and last but not least enjoy dinner at the club with fellow Tigers Bill and Penny Agnew, Ernie and Myradean Ransome & Tim and Dorothy Kilty. I want to thank all the Spring Island residents for letting me share my career goals and aspirations with them. It is a special place that I enjoyed visiting.
Another focus that I continue to have while I get back into playing is building a support base. After I returned from Orlando my mom joined me in driving north to Spring Island, South Carolina to meet with various Ivy League alumni to share with them my plan to play over the next three years. We enjoyed the gracious hospitality of Bill and Penny Agnew (Princeton Tigers) who introduced us to many of the club members. I did a clinic on the driving range one afternoon and spoke about the 4 pillars of a champion (Equipment, Fitness/Nutrition, Golf Swing, Mental Game) but focused specifically on having a solid pre-shot routine. I got a lot of positive feedback and attribute much of the content of my clinic to my teaching mentors, including TJ and his writings in the book The 30 Second Swing. The day wrapped up with an opportunity for me to play with some of the members in attendance, present my "story" at a cocktail party hosted by the Agnew's and last but not least enjoy dinner at the club with fellow Tigers Bill and Penny Agnew, Ernie and Myradean Ransome & Tim and Dorothy Kilty. I want to thank all the Spring Island residents for letting me share my career goals and aspirations with them. It is a special place that I enjoyed visiting.
Upcoming plans
So what's next? I am just exhausted re-counting my recent travels but wouldn't change them for the world :)! My immediate focus is an upcoming trip to see TJ and continue refining my game. I am also looking forward to my first event at the end of February. I will be playing in the Florida Women's Open at Rio Pinar CC in Orlando the 26-28th. The Duramed Futures Tour kicks off with our first event in Lakeland the 2nd week of March. I will keep you posted on my results and hope to have my website up and going soon so you can follow me regularly http://www.marymoangolf.com/!
Church Family
Aside from the above I have been keeping grounded and building friendships at a local church in Jacksonville called Redeemer Presbyterian (http://www.jacksonvillechurch.org/app/w_page.php?id=1&type=section). Toby Dubose and the Redeemer members have made we feel very welcome. It is nice to already have a community to get involved in when I am home.
An opportunity for you to get involved!
Finally, I wanted to update you about an opportunity for you to support my career. My friend Hsin-Fu Wu (I mentioned him above) is hosting a Pampered Chef party on my behalf. He graciously is donating his cut of the profits towards my career. Details can be found at: http://www.pamperedchef.biz/wushouse?page=news-detail&featureId=774697. You don't have to attend to participate, simply order any items as instructed and you can have great cookware with proceeds benefiting your favorite professional golfer! It's not too soon to think about Mother's Day gifts, shower gifts, birthdays, etc! I will provide more details in an upcoming blog entry.
Thanks for reading and I will be back soon!
-Mary
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