Tournament Week (Book)
Professional golf is among the most intimate of sports. Only a thin rope separates the players from the fans. Yet the reality is that the rope is a substantial barrier that permits only a glimpse of the world of professional tournament golf. Tournament Week begins on Monday, with the red carpet rolled out for players upon their arrival, some in private jets, a Citation X in Tiger's case. Perks include luxury lodgings, entertainment for wives and children, outings, lavish meals, and parties. Tuesday is the practice round, which involves gambling to inject interest in an otherwise meaningless round. Wednesday is the longest day, the pro-am. The amateurs with their eyesore swings and misguided shots, live the life of a Tour Professional. The event begins on Thursday, and concludes with the final round on Sunday, which is the defining day in professional golf, when the pressure mounts and even champions choke. John Strege covers the manner in which players view their equipment from the idiosyncratic Mark O'Meara's requirement that his clubs look new to the eccentric Jesper Parnevik's perpetual tinkering. And there is an entire chapter on what the pros carry in their golf bags. Filled with entertaining stories and the very wry wit of the players, this is a must read for anyone who loves the game of golf. If you ever wondered what really happens on the PGA Tour, you will be riveted by this rare, behind-the-scenes tour of Tournament Week. Length: 228 pages.