sports

After 20 Years, I Finally Have NEW Sticks!

Published on June 20, 2013June 21, 2013 by Photo GirlLeave a comment

Me and my new shoes ;) — Me and my new shoes 😉

It always starts with a new pair of shoes. A good friend of mine got me back into golf which was not only fun…but yes, required a new pair of shoes. When I first got the invitation to play a round of 18, I promptly made my way into my storage area. I knew I had a set of clubs and a pair of golf shoes. After moving my 50 Christmas decoration boxes (I do love the holidays) – I finally found my clubs. I dusted them off (they could have used a good run under a professional leaf blower). Then, I carefully peaked down into the bag to see if there were any mice peaking back out. I’ve always wondered if you left a bag long enough, would a mouse find it and make it their home? Sure the bag was animal-free; I brought it up to my driveway. Not too bad I thought. 20 years old and still looking pretty good. The shoes were harder to find. After an afternoon of racking my brain…where could I possibly put them! I found them tucked into one of my Halloween decoration boxes. I have no idea why they would be there…but there they were.

I decided a quick run to the driving range was in order before I stepped foot on the course. Donning my east-coast, two-toned shoes and lugging an incredibly heavy bag of clubs behind me, I fed a $10.00 bill into the machine and got a large bucket of balls (this is going to prove to be an expensive sport). At the time, I had no idea the world of golf had changed. I do remember I got a few “looks” as I was whacking away at my large bucket. Was it the cute shoes? My swing? Noooo…I’m sure it was my clubs and antiquated bag that was the cause of all those stares. I was way behind the times. Here is a photo of my shoes that first day back on the range, and my club…

Ahhhh, yes, my classic two tones retro shoes — Ahhhh, yes, my classic two-toned, retro shoes

The morning of my first game, I discovered an entirely new world. That day I borrowed a set of clubs and wore my 20 year old shoes. The irons seemed similar but the driver blew my mind. I could not believe how large it was! The photo below shows my old driver next to a new one. It almost doesn’t seem fair….!

Playing with the new driver and a few tweaks as to where I needed to place the ball in my stance, I could see a difference. So what happened? I found myself out looking for a new pair of shoes…and it was all downhill from there. I was hooked! If you follow my blog you know I’ve golfed before. Over the years, I drifted away from the sport but like a boomerang, but I guess I’m now back.

My shadow in the simulator trying new clubs

After playing a few times I decided I also needed a new set of clubs. The last time I purchased a set was about 20 years ago. As I mentioned, the drivers used to be the size of a lemon and now they look like a bowling ball. So when I decided to purchase clubs, the guys down at the coffee shop told me about a few places to get my clubs fitted (Thanks Bradley and Steve). And then, I learned about the PGA Superstore from my good friend Susan. Imagine Bloomingdales but all they have are golf items. I’m sure you men out there are rolling your eyes, but it is a golf-lover’s heaven (And the only store I can think to compare it to is either Bloomingdales or Nordstrom’s)

The PGA Superstore...the golf bag section — The PGA Superstore…the golf bag section

So back to the acquisition of my new clubs. The first time I went into the PGA Superstore I was actually a bit shy. I’m not a really good player and was a little worried they would look at me crossed eyed when I mentioned I’d like to try some clubs. I walked over to the area where they have a long row of simulation booths – where you can hit and a computer will tell you your club and ball speed, trajectory, length of drive, etc. One of the Pros who works there walked up to me and asked me how he could help – his name was Marty Fossum and he seemed very interested in helping me out. From that point forward, I felt right at home.

Marty helped start the club fitting process and not once did I feel rushed. If you get your clubs fitted they will measure, check to see if they need to adjust your lie angle, confirm shaft length, type and brand. The way they check to see which brand you like is by interchanging the different heads – Titleist, Ping, Taylor Made, Cobra, etc. There are a ton of brands, so get ready to hit a bunch of shots. When I got finished, I had a good idea which one I liked but wanted to come back and try it again. “No problem” said Marty. He told me they don’t work off commission so the most important thing they want to do is fit you with the clubs that work best for you…not them. And I liked that.

I came back two more times and on it was on the third time that I ordered my new irons. Below are some photos from the day I purchased my clubs. That day Michael Brown helped me out and he was GREAT! He adjusted a few things including shaft length which I really appreciated, was incredibly patient, and I finally pulled the trigger. Also, Chris Mullane came over and helped me with my swing. Chris is a 37 year PGA teaching PRO and has fitted clubs for over 17 years. Also, the day I got my clubs was his birthday so Happy Birthday Chris! If you’d like lessons I’d ask for Chris. Also, Nathan Brown, who is the Hard Goods Supervisor was very helpful too.

Chris Mullane (left) and Michael Brown (right) - SO MUCH FUN and so helpful! — Chris Mullane (left – Happy Birthday!) and Michael Brown (right) – SO MUCH FUN and so helpful!

Ordering my irons! My new bag is on the right. Mathew Green (left) Michael Brown (next) Me, Steven Fijak (right)

Ok, flash forward about a 1.5 weeks and it’s now time to pick up my clubs. It turned out that my Dad, aka Papa Stan, was in town and we were able to stop by and get them, with my brother and beautiful niece Ally – here is a photo of us picking them up. Thanks for taking the picture Michael, and allowing my Dad and brother to hit a few. We really think you are the best!

Papa Stan (my Dad), Steve (my brother) and my beautiful niece Ally! Picking up my new irons!

And some additional photos I took that day to show you around:

I really wanted to thank the team of people who helped me. They allowed me to hit a ton of balls and try a number of clubs. For me great service means the world and if I find it I’m happy to let people know. Next I’m going to get my driver!

For more information on one of my new favorite stores: www.pgatoursuperstore.com

The Golf Club at Boulder Ridge

Published on May 20, 2013May 20, 2013 by Photo GirlLeave a comment

A couple of nights ago I discovered a hidden, private golf course located in Almaden Valley in Northern California – The Boulder Ridge Golf Club. Because it’s a members-only club I felt fortunate to have this special opportunity to take a peek during a two part adventure: A sunset drive in a golf cart so I could shoot some of the photos you see here…and a fabulous dinner.

Although you’re right in the middle of Almaden Valley, you feel like you’re in another world. Since it’s a private club I thought it would be fun to take you on a photo tour so you can get a “behind the scene” view of this stunning course.

One of the first things you’ll notice are the beautiful hills which give you the most amazing views at sunset.

This is driving range where you’ll find stacked balls in the shape of a pyramid. I have no idea who does that but what a job. (You can just barely see them in the photo.)

On the road driving in…

You’ll also find a Pavilion where they hold parties, weddings, events and the view is spectacular. The photo shows the approach to the Pavilion along with my faithful driver, who patiently waited while I snapped a few 😉

Bolder Ridge Pavillion — Boulder Ridge Pavilion

When you arrive at the Pavilion you’ll see this walkway out to where they hold events and weddings. You can see the chairs lined up over on the right. I’m sure there’s not a bad seat in the house.

There are also a number of areas where you can sit and have a drink…I don’t believe helmets are required but I would keep an eye out for a random ball – especially if someone like me is playing.

Photogirltravels.com: Photography by Shelley D Spray This photo was taken outside of the bar / restuarant where there is a cozy patio where you can watch the sunset and sip a glass of wine.

And finally, our fabulous dinner. Filet mignon with a special sauce, risotto (which was amazing), mashed potatoes and veggies. The spinach salad was great too (sorry, no pic). A special thanks to my most excellent tour guide. What a fabulous adventure! 😉

About the Club:

Their website: www.boulderridgegolfclub.com

Also, a special thanks to Sandie Weis, the Director of Food and Beverage and her team for the fabulous service – and of course our bartender Tracie (and Lisa too!)

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Would you like a print? Please click on “Contact”. My photography is printed on aluminum. Utilizing an advanced process which infuses dyes directly into the metal, the colors and saturation are really amazing. In addition, your print will be displayed using mount blocks which float the image ½ inch off the wall.

CordeValle Championship Golf Resort

Published on May 14, 2013May 14, 2013 by Photo GirlLeave a comment

The thing I love about living in California (and there are many) is that you can drive a short distance and find yourself in a different world. As most of you know, I live in Los Gatos. I’m two hours from Napa Valley, an hour from the quaint, seaside town of Carmel, and I most recently discovered, 30 minutes from one of the most beautiful golf courses – The CordeValle Championship Golf Resort. If you joined me when we visited the AT&T Pebble Beach PRO-AM you know I have held a golf club before. Granted, the ones I have look like they are made of bronze (they have titanium shafts which I’m sure have been obsolete for years) My driver head is about 1/16 the size of the ones they sell today. And Arnold Schwarzenegger could have weight trained with my bag – apparently it’s that heavy. But even so, someone was brave enough to take me with them to play on the CordeValle Championship Golf Resort last Friday, knowing I had not swung a club in almost 15 years. 😉

I will admit I was a little nervous. I have hit a few scary balls in my time, so the ones who should have been nervous really should have been the other three in this foursome. I mean, how can you hit a ball that shoots out directly in front of you. No, not to your left, out toward the green but directly in front of where you are standing. Or, I’ve even heard of someone who hit a ball and it shot out behind them. Even with these life threatening occurrences, people still grab their clubs and head off to play a round. I’m surprised they don’t make you wear a helmet if you’re playing with someone who has not broken a 100.

As I smacked away at the ball I kept thinking, thank God I’m not driving because I truly had no idea where we were going. I mean, I knew where the green was, but the cart path seemed to wind around in a multitude of directions once you picked your ball off the green. A one point, we let other players through – although I picked up my ball many times to keep the game moving, I’m sure I still did slow things down a bit. But when you have lemons, what do you do? You make lemonade. In our case, we drove this little lemon over to the Clos La Chance Winery, got her a bottle of Pinot (I did share), and headed back over to play the rest of the course.

So you may be wondering, how did I play? Well, with the help of some very good instructions from the “hummer”, I did play 18 holes (sort of) and, I actually parred one!

So I’ll leave you with my sunset photo – We played later in the afternoon so when we got to the last holes we saw a gorgeous sunset… all in all, it was pretty spectacular day… A special thanks to my very brave hummer for taking me along for the ride. 😉

If you missed my Pebble Beach PRO-AM Golf Tournament post: https://photogirltravels.com/category/golf-2/

CordeValle Golf Championship Resort information:

Website: http://www.cordevallegolf.com/packages?gclid=CNL10aTBlLcCFUQ6QgodLWsABA

Here’s a link to a hole-by-hole tour which is a pretty cool site: http://www.cordevallegolf.com/golf/course/hole-by-hole-course-tour

And a map of the course:

Cat’s Hill Race – Los Gatos

Published on May 2, 2013May 6, 2013 by Photo GirlLeave a comment

Cat's Hill Race held in Los Gatos — Cat’s Hill Race held in Los Gatos

I know I’ve mentioned a little bit about my bike riding skills but here’s a quick recap. First my bike – Carefully parked in my garage sits my sweet cruiser donning a seat the size of a couch. There’s a cup holder that’s perfect for a chilled Coke Zero and a basket that’s large enough to hold a good book and a blanket. My riding skills: I prefer flat, tree and flower lined pavements. Hills are nice if they are one-way and I’m heading in a downward direction.

So, with that said, the one thing I won’t be doing this week is registering for one of the toughest races on the NorCal circuit which is held in my town – Los Gatos. The event is called the Cat’s Hill Race and it leaves no margin for error or tactical lapse. You don’t dare miss a gear shift or shift your gaze. If you do, you most likely will find yourself in the back of the pack, or skidding along a hot tarmac.

Nicholson Avenue hill is the most impressive part of the race, and where it gets its name – this hill is also called Cat’s Hill or, “Sweet Mother of…” if you’re trying to walk / ride up it. How hard could it be you ask…well, it’s a gut-wrenching 23% climb. But it doesn’t stop there. Riding or walking up this hill once would be a real effort, but during the Cat’s Hill race the riders typically have to do it 12, 15 or 35 times!

Cat's Hill Race, coming around the corner before Cat's Hill — Cat’s Hill Race, coming around the corner before Cat’s Hill

Now I don’t ride in this race but I do like to photograph it. During this race the riders go around the same circuit, over and over again. So even though they just road past you, you’ll see them again in about 5 minutes. It’s a photographer’s dream – versus most races where they fly by once and you have to drive miles ahead to catch up with them again. (Shaking your head as you peruse the many photos you shot that are all blurry) How could you not get at least one great shot if you have hundreds of times to photograph the riders? I have just a few photo tips if you decide to head over to the race.

First, just shoot a bunch of photos, I mean why not?
If you are shooting with your iPhone try an app called Fast Camera which takes tons of photos automatically.
If you have a digital camera check the owner’s manual to if it has this capability.
Pan when you shoot. Look out at the riders as they are approaching you, pick one, lock on that rider and then move 180 degrees with them as they pass from the left to the right, all the while shooting photos.
Find a place to stand about half way up Cat’s Hill. That’s where you’ll catch the agony in the rider’s eyes – along with a few good swear words.
And mostly, just have fun!

Cat's Hil Race — Cat’s Hill Race, panning with the riders

Cat's Hill Classic Race in Los Gatos — Cat’s Hill Classic Race in Los Gatos

Cat's Hill Classic Race in Los Gatos, California — Cat’s Hill Classic Race in Los Gatos, California

If you’re in Los Gatos this Saturday, May 4, 2013, mark your calendar. You can’t miss it as there will be a ton of people around town. Note – The first race starts at 9:20am. The pros start racing at 5:00.

Here’s the link to the Cat’s Hill Classic website: http://www.catshill.org/

Here’s the map where they race: Maybe I’ll see you there!

If you’d like to purchase a print to remind you of this beautiful area, please click on “Contact”. My photography is printed on aluminum. Utilizing an advanced process which infuses dyes directly into the metal, the colors and saturation are really amazing. In addition, your print will be displayed using mount blocks which float the image ½ inch off the wall.

Speed

Published on February 11, 2013May 27, 2014 by Photo GirlLeave a comment

I know the east coast and midwest are getting hammered with snow but here in California it’s almost spring-like. On my walk yesterday I struggled my way up “Cat’s Hill” which is located in Los Gatos, California. On my slow assent (it’s a very steep hill)…

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Speed

Published on February 11, 2013 by Photo GirlLeave a comment

I know the east coast and midwest are getting hammered with snow but here in California it’s almost spring-like. On my walk yesterday I struggled my way up “Cat’s Hill” which is located in Los Gatos, California. On my slow assent (it’s a very steep hill) a few bikers passed me and I thought of posting a couple of my sports photos. During the Cat’s Hill Classic Race, thousands of bikers race through the neighborhoods and then fly around a corner and up this hill. It’s a photographer’s dream as it’s a huge loop that they follow over and over again. Hence you have a lot of opportunities to get a decent shot. The trick to photographing something that is moving is to pan and take a lot of photos. I’m sure there is some science behind it but that’s essentially what I do. I’ll share a few as we get closer to the event which is held in May.