I spent a fair amount of time yesterday alternating between watching the U.S. Open and jumping on Facebook to respond to various people’s comments about the “dead” greens at Pebble Beach. I know that even superintendents don’t universally like the mottled purple look of the stressed out Poa at one of the world’s most famous courses, but I loved it. Why?
First, it’s the USGA practicing what it preaches. Some people – including me – wince when they start talking about how “brown is beautiful” and wall-to-wall green doesn’t have to be the norm. But think about it…there’s never been a better time to show people that even the nation’s national championship can be played on a course that doesn’t look traditional.
Second, it’s a teachable moment for superintendents. Those of you out there who have blogs or regular columns in club newsletters should jump all over this to compare tournament conditions with daily-play conditions and explain why the greens at Pebble looked the way they looked.
Third, Chris Dalhamer, his crew at Pebble and the Blue Blazers of the USGA once again proved that a great course can put the world’s best players into a purple Poa haze anytime they feel like it.
Speaking of Facebook, are you on it? If so, look for GCI’s new, improved and totally revolutionary Facebook page very soon.