Luckiest Golfer On Earth

The Links Luckiest Golfers On Earth official website: https://luckiestgolferonearth.com/ Ted's Fundraiser to raise awareness and funding for GBS|CIDP Research: https://p2p.onecause.com/gbs-cidp-diy... GBS|CIDP Foundation International:https://www.gbs-cidp.org/

The Links Luckiest Golfers On Earth official website: https://luckiestgolferonearth.com/ Ted's Fundraiser to raise awareness and funding for GBS|CIDP Research: https://p2p.onecause.com/gbs-cidp-diy... GBS|CIDP Foundation International:https://www.gbs-cidp.org/

Teddy and Higgy are thrilled to welcome to the show, Mike O'Reilly the Director of Golf Operations for Whistling Straits and Blackwolf Run and he has plenty to share about these incredible golf courses during his long tenure there.  The Kohler owned property has hosted many major golf championships throughout the years, most notably Whistling Straits was the location for The Ryder Cup in 2021! A worldwide major sporting event that Mike was blessed to have spent a great deal of time preparing for and helping execute the unforgettable event. It was an amazing spectacle that none of us will forget any time soon!   Mike was excited to share that they've recently made some updates to the golf courses as well. They've opened up a beautiful 10-hole, par 3 golf course and a fun 18-hole putting course. Both have been enjoyed by legions of players and have really opened up the number of activities available at the golf resort to engage in. If you've been looking to play the golf courses at Blackwolf Run or Whistling Straits, you better book fast. They only have a few tee times left this year and have already opened up booking for 2023.  Throughout our conversation, Mike shares his sage advice when attempting to play the golf course for the first time and reveals what to expect when you visit the area. Mike has a shared love of the game of golf, but more importantly, he loves the community that he lives & has worked in for over 25 years! A fascinating conversation where both Teddy & Higgy learn quite a bit more about the Koehler organization which creates even more eagerness to get out to Wisconsin to play these amazing golf courses for the first time! Show Notes: [01:07] Welcome Mike O'Reilly, Director of Golf at Blackwolf Run and Whistling Straits.  [02:16] Mike shares his experiences at Whistling Straits during and after The Ryder Cup.  [04:07] How their relationship with the PGA was established and continues.  [05:41] Has there been any talk of a U.S. Open at Whistling Straits?  [07:25] Hear the history of Blackwolf Run and Whistling Straits.  [09:29] They recently opened a 10-hole par three course and an 18-hole putting course. [11:23] Are they booked up this year already?  [12:40] Is it always windy there? Seems like the recent tournament stops were pretty windy. [14:35] Mike shares the must-dos you have to participate in when you visit the area and resort.  [16:50] Do they have a caddy program at their courses?  [21:12] Over a 1000 bunkers on the course? [22:42] Has Mike ever played a round without hitting a bunker?  [24:58] What advice does Mike have for navigating the courses?  [27:13] Does Teddy have a chance to reach when playing the tips?  [30:48] Mike shares some of his favorite experiences while working at the courses.  [33:03] Listen as Mike retells his history with the course. [35:32] Ted and Higgy are looking forward to playing these courses.  The Links Luckiest Golfer On Earth official website: https://luckiestgolferonearth.com/ Ted's Fundraiser to raise awareness and funding for GBS|CIDP Research: https://p2p.onecause.com/gbs-cidp-diy/ted-fenton

Pebble Beach Golf Links is the #1 golf course in America that anyone can make a tee time at to play. This iconic public golf course is listed as a top ten golf course in America on nearly every publication's list, and that is no accident. Pebble Beach is one of the most legendary golf courses on the planet! Listen in as Teddy and Higgy chat with Eric Lippert, the Head PGA Professional at Pebble Beach, who has worked for this incredible organization for nearly 20 years! Eric started at Del Monte GC (where he held the course record of 60 for a number of years) and has spent time at all four golf courses at Pebble Beach. He has had a unique view to some of the most iconic tournament play in recent years and he has the stories to prove it.  One of the things he's most proud of during his tenure at Pebble Beach is the care and attention the staff delivers to each and every player, who gets the chance to play this incredible golf course. This is a bucket list golf course for nearly every golfer out there, and Eric's staff are determined to make sure that all players & guests have an amazing experience! Teddy, Higgy, and Eric talk about the unpredictable nature of Pacific Coast weather, how the course has fared over the years, the legendary golf tournaments & memorable shots that have taken place at Pebble Beach, and most critically, they ask Eric to share his advice for anyone playing the course for the first time.  It is truly an experience to visit & play Pebble Beach and it's one that Teddy has been dreaming about for years. He can't wait to tee off & check it off his bucket list! (Higgy too if he's able to make it in January 2023!)  Listen in to the amazing stories Eric shares about his experiences as the Head PGA Professional at Pebble Beach!  This was an amazing conversation, and one that you won't want to miss! Show Notes [01:09] Do you know any golfers who have a course bucket list that doesn't include Pebble Beach Golf Links?  [02:13] Welcome Eric Lippert, the Head PGA Professional at Pebble Beach Golf Links.  [02:51] How do you get a tee time to play Pebble Beach and how far out do you need to plan?  [04:29] Is there a better chance to play if you're a single player walking up to the pro shop with no reservation?  [06:28] Eric confirms the number of tournaments they've hosted through the years.  [09:53] They breakdown various amazing shots that have happened in tournament play at the golf course.  [11:26] Learn about Eric's long history at Pebble Beach and his career.  [12:33] He even held the course record for a while there.  [16:04] How many courses are part of Pebble Beach?  [21:20] The people who work at Pebble Beach take pride in the fact that it's a national treasure.  [23:06] Eric shares how he felt when he got the call to become the Head PGA Professional at Pebble Beach. [26:17] The real role of a PGA Professional.  [29:08] How have the oceanside holes fared over time with erosion?  [30:46] Are they the longest hosting course for the PGA tour?  [34:11] When do they start setting up for their PGA Tour events?  [37:18] What advice does Eric give to first-time players at Pebble Beach?  [40:31] How long does the average round take?  [41:54] Eric shares his favorite time of the day to play the course.  [43:28] Are there any memorable stories that stick out for Eric from his time working at the course? [45:58] Plus a few more unique moments.  [49:22] Ted and Higgy ask some rapid fire questions of Eric.  [52:57] They say their farewells.  The Links Luckiest Golfer On Earth official website: https://luckiestgolferonearth.com/ Ted's Fundraiser to raise awareness and funding for GBS|CIDP Research: https://p2p.onecause.com/gbs-cidp-diy/ted-fenton GBS|CIDP: https://www.gbs-cidp.org/

Teddy and Higgy are absolutely ecstatic to be able to share the conversation they had with Brendan Walsh, Director of Golf & Head PGA Professional for The Country Club in Brookline, Massachusetts! The Country Club will be hosting the fast approaching 2022 US Open! TCC is the oldest country club in the United States and one of the five founding golf clubs that started the United States Golf Association.  The history of The Country Club is awe inspiring. When you walk onto the grounds, you can literally feel the history & almost see the legends of the game as you walk along the fairways, knowing that this hallowed ground & country club was instrumental in the development of golf as we know it in the U.S. and all throughout the entire world. It's truly a magical feeling.  In fact, some of the most important moments for the game of golf in the U.S. have happened at TCC. They hosted the historical 1913 U.S. Open, which was won by a local 20 year old amateur player named Francis Ouimet, who lived across the street & worked as a caddy at TCC! He beat golfing legends Harry Vardon and Ted Ray in an 18 hole playoff to win the 1913 US Open! His remarkable win sparked the golfing boom in the U.S. & changed the game forever. Each of the three U.S. Opens hosted at The Country Club have resulted in a tie at the end of regulation play & required an 18 hole playoff to determine the winner. Legions of golf fans are excited to see if this tradition holds true for the 2022 US Open. Despite being deep in preparations for the upcoming 2022 US Open, Brendan was able to find some time to share with us the history of TCC, his background in the game of golf, and why he's so passionate about mentorship in both the game of golf & in the business of golf.  This was a truly one-of-a-kind conversation for an amazing and historical golf course. If you're as interested in the history of the game as Teddy and Higgy are, you won't want to miss out on the details shared about this amazing golf course, from an absolute gentleman & great steward of the game of golf, Mr. Brendan Walsh! Show Notes: [01:20] Teddy and Higgy are super excited to be chatting with Brendan Walsh, Director of Golf at The Country Club. [03:32] Higgy shares that The Country Club is preparing to host the 2022 U.S. Open.  [05:58] Brendan provides a brief history of the club.  [08:57] This is going to be the 17th U.S. PGA championship that they've hosted.  [11:22] Every one of the Opens they've hosted has resulted in a playoff round to determine the winner.  [14:05] They've hosted a record six national Amateurs.  [17:04] It's amazing that the membership at The Country Club is so open with their course.  [18:11] How does the course change for championships? [22:12] Learn more about how they incorporate holes in different championships.  [25:07] Do they have member events that play the same tees?  [27:32] Did he feel the pressure to perform with the ‘99 Ryder Cup in his second season at The Country Club.  [28:56] Brendan shares who his mentors in the game have been.  [33:30] One of the events they didn't mention was the 2008 New England PGA Championships.  [34:53] What did his father do in order to support 15 kids.  [36:22] Did they have a golfing family?  [37:25] Does he have a favorite golf course outside of his home club? [38:53] One story that he'll never forget during his time at The Country Club. [41:36] Brendan's advice for someone who's never played the course. [44:49] Some behind the scenes information about preparing for the 2022 US Open.  [48:07] Listen as Brendan answers some rapidfire questions.  [51:55] Last words from Brendan.  The Links Luckiest Golfer On Earth official website: https://luckiestgolferonearth.com/ Ted's Fundraiser to raise awareness and funding for GBS|CIDP Research: https://p2p.onecause.com/gbs-cidp-diy/ted-fenton GBS|CIDP Foundation: https://www.gbs-cidp.org/

Oak Tree National's Head PGA Professional Jon Sandell drops in to talk about this legendary golf course, its rich history, and its very long list of PGA Tour players who call it their home course! Through two renovations and countless tour events over the last 15 years, Jon has seen Oak Tree National evolve into a much beloved golf course that holds the attention of many past, present, & future PGA Tour Professionals. As of the time of this recording, Oak Tree National is undergoing a massive renovation but it is slated to be ready to go by September 2022. The question has to be asked, will the renovations affect the difficulty of the course at all?  Oak Tree National is one of the hardest golf courses in the country. It has the 3rd highest rating in the country at 79.5 & the slope is maxed out at 155! In fact, the renovations are set to return the course to its original design and likely increase the difficulty.  Per Jon, the course is tough but fair. His best advice for first timers is to not take the course personally. Know that you have to be truly on your game and if you're not, the course can take its toll on players sometimes. Listen in to hear all about the rich history at Oak Tree National and why it's such a special place to Jon and so many PGA Tour players! Show Notes [01:52] Welcome Jon Sandell, the Head PGA Professional at Oak Tree National.  [02:40] Learn about the renovations happening at Oak Tree National. [04:20] This is the second renovation they've gone through in the 15 years that Jon has been there.  [06:00] Oak Tree National is one of the hardest courses in the nation. Learn more.  [07:59] What was the purpose behind the difficulty level of the course?  [10:26] They do a special event just for members each year in October. [12:54] Hear a list of the PGA tour players that have come out of Oak Tree National.  [15:25] Jon shares details about the pro scratch they each year.  [17:49] Learn about the dramatic pro tour finishes the course has seen.  [19:59] After playing the course in the 1984 US Amateur, Scott Verplank decided to stay. [21:02] The pros who live on property are key to keeping the club growing.  [24:38] Jon's advice for first timers on the course.  [26:49] Magic happened when Jon extended an invitation to Teddy to play the course.  [28:58] What does the caddy program look like at Oak Tree National?  [29:58] How far are they from Tulsa and Southern Hills? [32:11] Hear one of the routes that Teddy planned at the beginning of this process.  [34:59] One of Jon's most special moments of his time at Oak Tree National.  [38:05] Jon answers several rapid fire questions about golf.  [41:16] Teddy and Higgy recap their conversation with Jon Sandell.    The Links Luckiest Golfer On Earth official website: https://luckiestgolferonearth.com/ Ted's Fundraiser to raise awareness and funding for GBS|CIDP Research: https://p2p.onecause.com/gbs-cidp-diy/ted-fenton https://www.gbs-cidp.org/

What qualifies someone for membership in The Luckiest Golfers On Earth Club? Well…for starters, you have to be lucky, in order to get lucky & Joel Jenkins, Head PGA Professional at Mount Pleasant Golf Club in Lowell, MA is certainly one lucky man, to the tune of 67,000,000 to 1! After a lifetime of doughnuts in the hole in one category, he managed to card not one, but TWO ACES in a single round at Shadow Creek in Las Vegas, NV. Listen in as he shares the incredible tale!  It's 2018, a beautiful November day, at the famed Shadow Creek. Higgy and Joel were both playing that day on different teams, at the traveling NEPGA Pro Am tournament. Unfortunately there had been some weather delays, so the tournament was off to a slow start.  Once it finally got going, Joel was a tad concerned about his performance. Despite getting the coveted shotgun spot of starting at hole one, Joel came out of the gate bogey, bogey, bogey. Gratefully, things started to look up as he made par on #4, a brutal par 5.  Joel would've never guessed walking to the tee at hole number five what was about to happen. And then it happened! He thought for sure he was long and even took his putter onto the green, because he absolutely didn't think it was in the jar, even though all his boys were convinced he had holed it. As he walked up to the hole and peeked in, there sat his ball…and the celebration ensued! He was in complete disbelief. His friends were making quite a ruckus and he gleefully joined in the festivities, but his mind was whirling! Then at the turn, during lunch, he celebrated with a huge plate of all of his favorites. Dogs, burgers, sausages, the works! Stuffed to the rafters from lunch, he thought the second half of the day wasn't going to go all that well, and thought who cares! The hole in one monkey is off my back finally after 35 years! The rest of this day is going to be a breeze…or so he thought! He had already jarred it on number five, had a healthy lunch, then 8 holes later, threw it in the jar again at number 13! Two ones, on the same card, at Shadow Creek! Joel joined the ranks of a very, very small club of golfers that day. There are not many players who can say they have made two hole in ones, during one round of golf. Joel Jenkins is definitely one of the Luckiest Golfers On Earth and this story is one for the ages! Show Notes [00:44] Welcome back to the podcast.  [01:36] Teddy and Mike chat about the elusive hole in one.   [03:52] Learn the odds for making a hole in one.  [05:04] Welcome Joel Jenkins, the Head Golf Professional at Mount Pleasant Golf Club and one of the Luckiest Golfers On Earth.  [06:11] Listen as Joel shares his odds busting Pro Am performance at Shadow Creek.  [09:32] Shadow Creek is a truly amazing experience.  [12:28] At this point in his career, Joel didn't have any holes in one.  [14:45] Mike actually got to hear the commotion because he was playing that day too.  [15:44] Then it got even better. Listen as Joel shares the rest of the story.  [18:58] He was truly stunned when he walked up and saw his ball in the hole again. This time he got to share the moment with his daughter who was on the phone.  [23:05] Joel shares how he felt the rest of the round and the day.  [26:13] Learn some more stats from Coast to Coast Hole in One.  [29:23] One of his other members, playing on another team got a hole in one that day, too.  [31:26] Joel only has one regret from his performance on that fateful day. [32:42] Did he go and try his luck at the casino that night?  [33:56] He also got an amazing coffee table book from Shadow Creek detailing all the holes and the course design.  [36:16] Were there drinks everywhere, coming from all fronts, because of the six hole in ones on the first day?  [39:14] Joel's thoughts on one of his amazing shots and the awesome things his buddies did to commemorate the day.  [42:59] Here's hoping Teddy and Joel are able to play a round of golf together.  The Links Luckiest Golfer On Earth official website: https://luckiestgolferonearth.com/ Ted's Fundraiser to raise awareness and funding for GBS|CIDP Research: https://p2p.onecause.com/gbs-cidp-diy/ted-fenton GBS|CIDP Foundation International: https://www.gbs-cidp.org/

Don Hurter is the Director of Golf & Instruction at The Quarry at La Quinta. This course is #85 of America's 100 Greatest Golf Courses. Luckiest Golfer On Earth official website: https://luckiestgolferonearth.com/ Ted's Fundraiser to raise awareness and funding for GBS|CIDP Research: https://p2p.onecause.com/gbs-cidp-diy/ted-fenton GBS|CIDP Foundation International:https://www.gbs-cidp.org/      

Ted and Mike are joined by Greg Grunberg, of Alias, Heroes, Lost, Star Trek, and Star Wars fame, to chat about golf, giving back, and the entire purpose behind this show. Greg is no stranger to raising awareness for important causes and his insights are invaluable. His suggestions & expertise are gratefully welcomed to help achieve the goals Ted and Mike have going into 2023.  Listen in as they chat about Greg's luckiest moment in life, why it's important that caretakers receive recognition as well, and his thoughts on ways to spread this message even further.  Greg has definitely had his share of luck in life, and his stories are incredible. Luck has often  been described as when opportunity meets preparation, and Greg certainly represents that.  One of his absolutely luckiest moments in life happened the night he met his wife. He was out at a bar with a friend preparing to meet up with a couple of ladies who ended up standing them up. Then as luck would have it, across the bar, he saw the woman who was meant to be Mrs. Grunberg for the next 30 years! But it all could have never happened had it not been for a single digit, one wrong number in a phone number, that would change Greg's life forever. They now have three adult sons, one of whom lives with epilepsy. Greg is now bringing awareness, not only to the epilepsy community as a whole, but also to those wonderful souls who take care of their loved ones who are living with chronic or life altering diseases, God bless the care givers! Greg is a wonderful human being whom Ted is grateful to call a friend and someone who has been in his corner for many, many years. Greg has some amazing stories to share, a lot of wisdom and sage advice to impart, and Ted couldn't be happier that he's willing to help bring awareness to the GBS|CIDP Foundation International.  Listen in to hear their entire conversation and have fun listening to all of his amazing stories.  Show Notes [00:44] Welcome back to the show folks.  [02:49] Ted and Mike are joined by Greg Grunberg.  [04:10] How Greg manufactured a bit of a golf course in his backyard.  [07:11] The mini-course has definitely increased his short game skills.  [09:27] His relationship with JJ Abrams and why it has been a stroke of luck.  [11:54] One of Greg's luckiest moments.  [16:58] How he met his wife and all the ways their first meeting could have not happened.   [20:08] Luck is where opportunity meets preparation. This applies to every endeavor.  [21:24] Greg shares stories of driving for Joe Silver and it humanized some of his idols.  [26:13] We all want to have moments where we can look back and say, “I did that!”  [29:22] For Greg, the real life moments are so much more important than the auspices of Hollywood.  [29:53] He provides ideas to Mike and Ted to elevate the cause behind this entire endeavor.  [32:02] Learn more about The Caregiver Series. [35:02] Why it's important to take steps to take care of yourself as a caregiver.  [36:48] What to expect on the next show and Greg's idea of nominating lucky people to come onto the show next! The Links Luckiest Golfer On Earth official website: https://luckiestgolferonearth.com/ Ted's Fundraiser to raise awareness and funding for GBS|CIDP Research: https://p2p.onecause.com/gbs-cidp-diy/ted-fenton https://www.gbs-cidp.org/ Greg Grunberg The Caregiver Series Talk About It Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

Donald J. Ross designed golf courses have a special place in Teddy's heart. His formative years of golf were spent on a few of Donald Ross' courses, learning the game at Worcester CC, then working as an assistant pro at Oakley CC and also a short time at Alamance CC in North Carolina. He's super excited to talk with A.J. Sikula, the head PGA professional at Inverness Club! AJ joins Teddy and Mike to share about the lauded history of the club and gives keen insights into the course itself.  Inverness Club was founded in 1903 by well endowed citizens of Toledo, OH. Just a few short years later in 1918, the course we know and love today was finished. The residents of Toledo wanted a championship caliber course and they certainly got one.  The Ryder Cup was imagined & championed by the owner of Inverness Club, S.P. Jermain. Inverness Club members are very gracious and have a storied history of accommodation, having allowed golfing professionals in their clubhouse during the 1920 US Open, for the first time in history.  A.J. made his way to Inverness Club when the director of golf personally called & asked him to join the team at Inverness. To say that Teddy and Mike were excited to get some time on A.J.'s calendar is certainly an understatement.  Listen in as these three golf enthusiasts discuss the lauded history at Inverness, its exciting future, and how they can all consider themselves members of The Luckiest Golfers On Earth Club. The history of this extremely difficult course is truly fascinating and you won't want to miss this deep dive! Show Notes [01:05] We're talking about Inverness Club in Toledo, OH with A.J. Sikula, the head golf professional for the course.  [03:00] Teddy shares his connection with Donald J. Ross and a bit about his history.  [05:07] Learn more about A.J. and his experience.  [09:48] A.J. shares his best number at Inverness.  [12:41] The course has changed a little bit since it was designed because of course use and erosion.  [13:56] Why do they give grandfather clocks as their prizes?  [15:30] Who was responsible for creating the Ryder Cup? [16:47] Ways their membership is known for being gracious hosts of big events.  [21:29] Hear the story behind the permanent changes in the rules of overtime play due to a round at Inverness.  [25:18] Does A.J. have any additional information about Byron Nelson being a head PGA professional at Inverness?  [29:20] Mike shares a story about meeting Byron Nelson.  [32:58] A.J. fully believes that he is one of the luckiest golfers on Earth.  [36:10] Teddy and Mike recap the episode, the Inverness Club, and give a sneak peek of the next episode.  The Links Luckiest Golfer On Earth official website:https://luckiestgolferonearth.com/ Ted's Fundraiser to raise awareness and funding for GBS|CIDP Research: https://p2p.onecause.com/gbs-cidp-diy/ted-fenton GBS|CIDP Foundation International:https://www.gbs-cidp.org/ Inverness Club  

Teddy and Higgy are back this week to chat about the legendary, Donald Ross designed, Pinehurst No. 2! Joining them is the Director of Golf for The Pinehurst Resort, a North Carolina native, Mr. Ben Bridgers. Pinehurst No. 2 is one of the most iconic golf courses in the country. They have hosted both the men's and women's US Open and more single golf championships than any other course in America. In fact, it is the first U.S. Open anchor site ever.  The resort is absolutely gorgeous with sweeping views, perfectly manicured greens, and gorgeous accommodations. Not to mention the 11 different courses you can play while you stay.  Over the last few years, there has been renewed energy put forth to return the greens to their original visage and as a result the resort overall has benefitted from the old world appeal.  Listen as Ben shares insights about the courses, tips for people who've never been to Pinehurst, and details about what's coming up next for the area. This is one of the most lauded public golf courses and Teddy (1st time) and Higgy (multiple times) cannot wait to play in 2023.  Show Notes [00:44] Welcome back to the show with Teddy and Higgy.  [01:23] Ben Bridgers, the director of golf and operations at the Pinehurst Resort, joins us to chat about the course and all things golf.  [03:09] Teddy shares his initial thoughts on the course and how photogenic it is.  [05:07] Listen as Ben reminisces about his first few weeks on the job.  [06:37] How many golf courses exist on the property?  [09:37] We chat about the changes to the courses over the years.  [12:38] They even have an 18 hole putting course. [15:42] Learn more about the vision and passion for the future of the resort.  [17:55] The typical order for playing the courses.  [20:28] Ben shares some of the work that's going into bringing the courses back to life.  [22:50] We dig into the top ranked course on the property.  [24:34] Listen as Ben lists out all the reasons Number 2 is the heart of the resort.  [28:32] There's difficulty levels for a wide range of golfers.  [29:42] A review of the course by Jack Nicklaus.  [30:45] How the aesthetic view of the course has changed over the years and is now back to the original vision.  [33:17] The tribute to Payne Stewart's Open win.  [37:26] What happens if you birdie a par three on Number 2?  [40:13] Upcoming championships that they're hosting.  [43:10] Thank you so much for your time Ben.  The Links Luckiest Golfer On Earth official website: https://luckiestgolferonearth.com/ Ted's Fundraiser to raise awareness and funding for GBS|CIDP Research: https://p2p.onecause.com/gbs-cidp-diy/ted-fenton GBS|CIDP Foundation International: https://www.gbs-cidp.org/ Pinehurst: https://www.pinehurst.com/  

https://www.facebook.com/LuckiestGolferOnEarth https://twitter.com/luckiestgolfer  https://www.instagram.com/luckiestgolferonearth/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/goseeted/ https://www.luckiestgolferonearth.com  

Jason Poll has worked on all of the courses at Bandon Dunes and is now the head PGA Professional at Old Macdonald. One thing that most people don't know about Old Mac is that it's a template course heavily based on the designs of Charles Blair Macdonald.  The Links Luckiest Golfer On Earth official website: https://luckiestgolferonearth.com/ Ted's Fundraiser to raise awareness and funding for GBS|CIDP Research: https://p2p.onecause.com/gbs-cidp-diy/ted-fenton GBS|CIDP Foundation International: https://www.gbs-cidp.org/  

Pacific Dunes is an experience. Everything that you read about the course makes it seem as if getting to play there is a magical experience. The greens are fantastic and the course as a whole is quite large.  Michael O'Toole definitely confirms what Ted and Mike have found in their research. He shares some fantastic behind the scenes information about Pacific Dunes and gives the perfect advice for Ted as he prepares to play there next year.  The Links Luckiest Golfer On Earth official website: https://luckiestgolferonearth.com/ Ted's Fundraiser to raise awareness and funding for GBS|CIDP Research: https://p2p.onecause.com/gbs-cidp-diy/ted-fenton GBS|CIDP Foundation International: https://www.gbs-cidp.org/

Mike and Ted are back and they had the pleasure and privilege of speaking with the PGA Head Professionals from two more of the Bandon Dunes courses. First they chat with Michael O'Toole of Pacific Dunes and then Jason Poll of Old Macdonald shares his story. Listen in to hear it all.  Pacific Dunes is an experience. Everything that you read about the course makes it seem as if getting to play there is a magical experience. The greens are fantastic and the course as a whole is quite large.  Michael O'Toole definitely confirms what Ted and Mike have found in their research. He shares some fantastic behind the scenes information about Pacific Dunes and gives the perfect advice for Ted as he prepares to play there next year.  Jason Poll has worked on all of the courses at Bandon Dunes and is now the head PGA Professional at Old Macdonald. One thing that most people don't know about Old Mac is that it's a template course heavily based on the designs of Charles Blair Macdonald.  Both of these men have an obvious love and respect for the game of golf and more specifically for the courses they preside over. Their stories and insights are fascinating but their advice to simply enjoy the experience was brilliant.  Neither Ted nor Mike can wait until they're the ones stepping onto the green at the first hole for both of these courses. It's a once in a lifetime experience that they're sure to never forget. (Come on 2023!) Show Notes [00:00:22] A quick sneak peek of who is joining Ted and Mike on the show.  [00:02:54] Learn more about Pacific Dunes before Ted and Mike chat with Michael O'Toole, the head PGA professional for the course.  [00:04:29] Welcome Michael O'Toole to chat about Pacific Dunes.  [00:07:39] There is something for everyone, even those who don't want to play golf.  [00:09:02] What does an average day look like for players?  [00:12:46] How far in advance should you look to plan a trip to go out to the course?  [00:14:42] Where did the love of the game start for Michael?  [00:17:36] Which PGA Professional impacted him the most?  [00:20:44] How did he get hired as the PGA Pro for Pacific Dunes?  [00:25:25] It's neat to have followed Bandon and now being able to impact it.  [00:27:15] Michael's advice for Ted when he gets to play the course. [00:30:31] Ted's hope for what it will feel like to play Bandon and the resort. [00:33:20] Thank you so much to Michael for joining us and sharing his insights.  [00:25:17] A quick story about Tom Watson's time at Pacific Dunes.  [00:36:01] Welcome Jason Paul of Old Macdonald to the show and learn more about the course.  [00:39:51] How did Jason get started in the golf business?  [00:44:11] Was there one particular professional that helped get him started?  [00:46:54] The story behind him becoming the head professional at Old Macdonald.  [00:50:58] Which of the courses at the resort was his favorite to work for?  [00:52:33] One of the behind the scenes creation stories for Old Macdonald.  [00:55:12] Jason's advice for someone playing Old Macdonald for the first time.  [00:58:53] Does he have any specific memory that he'll always remember from his time at the resort?  [01:03:56] What you can expect from the show coming up. The Links Luckiest Golfer On Earth official website: https://luckiestgolferonearth.com/ Ted's Fundraiser to raise awareness and funding for GBS|CIDP Research: https://p2p.onecause.com/gbs-cidp-diy/ted-fenton GBS|CIDP Foundation International: https://www.gbs-cidp.org/

The next course up is Bandon Trails, their head PGA professional, Ryan Nielson joins Michael and Ted to chat about this special course and how it differs from Bandon Dunes and still delivers in epic ways; his insights are on point & invaluable. The Links Luckiest Golfer On Earth official website: https://luckiestgolferonearth.com/ Ted's Fundraiser to raise awareness and funding for GBS|CIDP Research: https://p2p.onecause.com/gbs-cidp-diy/ted-fenton GBS|CIDP Foundation International: https://www.gbs-cidp.org/  

Jake Sestero the head PGA professional of the very first course Ted's playing in 2023, Bandon Dunes. Jake shares a bit about his story, how he came to be the head PGA professional at Bandon Dunes and what to expect when he and Ted tee off as the first group off in 2023 on January 1st @ 8am! Bandon Dunes is one of four courses rated in Oregon that are ranked in the top 100, all of which are at the same resort. To say that Ted's excited to start his journey there would be a huge understatement.  The Links Luckiest Golfer On Earth official website: https://luckiestgolferonearth.com/ Ted's Fundraiser to raise awareness and funding for GBS|CIDP Research: https://p2p.onecause.com/gbs-cidp-diy/ted-fenton GBS|CIDP Foundation International: https://www.gbs-cidp.org/  

Mike & Ted thought it was very important to dig deep into how the courses are rated & ranked, so first up is Cory Mansfield.  Cory is the head PGA professional at Derryfield Country Club in Manchester, NH and a Golf Digest panelist & course rater. He was fantastic to talk with because of his depth of knowledge of the game of golf and the ratings process through Golf Digest.  Most important is the understanding that becoming a rater has nothing to do with playing free golf. This is a very serious process with far reaching consequences and all of the raters take that to heart. If you've ever wondered about the process, the first 30 minutes will be highly illuminative.  The Links Luckiest Golfer On Earth official website: https://luckiestgolferonearth.com/ Ted's Fundraiser to raise awareness and funding for GBS|CIDP Research: https://p2p.onecause.com/gbs-cidp-diy/ted-fenton GBS|CIDP Foundation International: https://www.gbs-cidp.org/  

To start everything off, Michael and Ted chat with not one, not two, but three amazing PGA professionals all about their personal experiences,  within the game of golf. Mike & Ted thought it was very important to dig deep into how the courses are rated & ranked, so first up is Cory Mansfield.  Cory is the head PGA professional at Derryfield Country Club in Manchester, NH and a Golf Digest panelist & course rater. He was fantastic to talk with because of his depth of knowledge of the game of golf and the ratings process through Golf Digest.  Most important is the understanding that becoming a rater has nothing to do with playing free golf. This is a very serious process with far reaching consequences and all of the raters take that to heart. If you've ever wondered about the process, the first 30 minutes will be highly illuminative.  Next Ted and Michael chat with Jake Sestero the head PGA professional of the very first course Ted's playing in 2023, Bandon Dunes. Jake shares a bit about his story, how he came to be the head PGA professional at Bandon Dunes and what to expect when he and Ted tee off as the first group off in 2023 on January 1st @ 8am! Bandon Dunes is one of four courses rated in Oregon that are ranked in the top 100, all of which are at the same resort. To say that Ted's excited to start his journey there would be a huge understatement.  The next course up is Bandon Trails, their head PGA professional, Ryan Nielson joins Michael and Ted to chat about this special course and how it differs from Bandon Dunes and still delivers in epic ways; his insights are on point & invaluable. Listen in to hear their stories and all of their amazing wisdom if you're planning to play either one of these legendary golf courses. Keep your ears tuned this way as Ted and Michael chat with more amazing professionals next week! Show Notes [00:00:53] Ever wonder who is responsible for rating the courses every couple of years? [00:03:07] Welcome Cory Mansfield, the head PGA professional at Derryfield Country Club, one of the course raters for Golf Digest.  [00:04:30] Learn how you can become a course rater.  [00:07:39] Cory's thoughts on my quest.  [00:08:10] The 8 categories that they're rating on as they review courses.  [00:11:29] Learn more about the categories and how they're rated.  [00:13:38] Which course has gotten his highest rating?  [00:14:42] Becoming a course rater has nothing to do with being able to play free golf.  [00:16:07] Do they have a quota?  [00:16:58] Which course has been Cory's favorite?  [00:18:30] What would Cory suggest for a guy like Ted to become a rater?  [00:20:16] When they rate, who do they play with?  [00:23:05] Michael shares a story about him and Cory playing some super quick games.  [00:25:02] Getting to talk with Cory was amazing and eye opening.  [00:26:09] Michael shares information about the very first course Ted's planning to play on January 1, 2023.  [00:28:55] Welcome Jake Sestero, the head PGA pro at Bandon Dunes Golf Course.  [00:31:51] Which events has Jake been at the course for recently?  [00:32:24] Why do they focus on amateur events?  [00:35:05] Where did Jake's love of golf start?  [00:37:12] Did he end up playing in college?  [00:38:53] After college did he try to play professionally?  [00:39:58] When did he decide to become a PGA professional?  [00:41:38] How did he get hired at Bandon Dunes?  [00:43:28] What is his favorite part of being the head PGA professional there? [00:45:19] Learn some of the behind the scenes details about the construction of the course. [00:47:08] Jake's advice for a first timer at Bandon Dunes.  [00:49:11] Hear one of the special moments he's experienced on the course.  [00:53:24] How do you get to Bandon Dunes?  [00:54:40] What is there to do at the resort beyond playing golf? [00:58:25] Ted and Jake are definitely looking forward to playing together.  [01:02:16] Meet Ryan Nielson, the head PGA pro at Bandon Trails.  [01:05:07] Learn more about his career when he turned pro.   [01:06:31] Was there anyone who influenced Ryan to become a professional?  [01:07:39] The story behind him becoming the pro at Bandon Trails.  [01:10:26] What's his favorite part of his job?  [01:11:34] Ryan shares his advice for someone playing Bandon Trails for the first time. [01:12:48] The weather you can expect in January on the courses.  [01:14:52] Experiencing the course with his dad is one of the most memorable experiences Ryan has had so far.  [01:17:14] Michael and Ted wrap up the episode and give you a taste of what to expect next week. The Links (pun intended) Luckiest Golfer On Earth official website: https://luckiestgolferonearth.com/ Ted's Fundraiser to raise awareness and funding for GBS|CIDP Research: https://p2p.onecause.com/gbs-cidp-diy/ted-fenton GBS|CIDP Foundation International: https://www.gbs-cidp.org/

The Dream When Ted was 14 years old, he had a dream to play America's 100 Greatest Golf Courses in a single calendar year. He didn't know if it could be done, but vowed in his retirement that he would attempt it.  The Diagnosis Ted was diagnosed with Multifocal Motor Neuropathy (MMN) which is a debilitating disease that will slowly reduce his ability to move and be active. Thankfully it won't kill him, but it has the potential to make life difficult down the road. The Decision With this diagnosis, making his dream a reality needed to happen now. So he closed his business and started making plans to travel the nation playing these courses.  The Test Ted has already made the trip to each and every course. You see, only 13 of the 100 top courses are public. All 87 of the others are private. That means he has to be sponsored by a member to play on the course.  The Friend This is going to be an endeavor and Ted is excited to make it happen. In fact, he called his longtime friend, Michael Higgins, to help make this dream come true. Listen as they talk about this story, their history, how they're going to make this happen, and what to expect in the coming episodes.  The Rules As if this challenge wasn't already hard enough, Ted has some stipulations by which he must abide. Take note and let's see if he can accomplish all of them. The Cause Ted hopes to raise $100,000 for the GBS | CIDP Foundation International. It is a global nonprofit organization supporting individuals and their families affected by Guillain-Barre' syndrome (GBS), chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), and related conditions through a commitment to support, education, research and advocacy. The Links (pun intended) Luckiest Golfer On Earth official website: https://luckiestgolferonearth.com/ Ted's Fundraiser to raise awareness and funding for GBS|CIDP Research: https://p2p.onecause.com/gbs-cidp-diy/ted-fenton GBS|CIDP Foundation International: https://www.gbs-cidp.org/