If you have been a loyal CBT customer for many years you may remember reading “Chip Shots”, a column that I wrote for our company newsletter that started in the 1980’s. The monthly update was a great way for us to communicate company and industry news with suppliers, customers, and friends of CBT. Every now and then I like to share my thoughts about golf with people who care. “Chip Shots” seemed like a good time to talk about the game I love, but also was a great opportunity to personally thank you for your continued partnership.
I am excited to announce the comeback of “Chip Shots!” I wanted to bring back the column to show, that despite the digital age and evolving business climate of today, we are still committed to the old fashion service and “mom and pop grocery store” morale that you’ve come to know and trust since the beginning.
The Masters
Well, the first major is right around the corner, and it’s perfect timing to start up “Chip Shots” again. There is so much history in this tournament and so many famous characters that have made it stand out and this year is no exception.
The Augusta National Golf Club opened in January 1933 and the inaugural Masters Tournament was held the next year. There have been many famous winners, but only one player made it what it is today – Arnold Palmer. When Arnold was playing great at the Masters you could hear the roars of the crowds many miles away. I believe Arnold’s charges and efforts to win created the aura of the tournament we know today.
Tiger Woods, to some degree, picked up where Arnold left. This year Tiger returns with the excitement and fan appeal he use to have. Tiger is a betting favorite as he looks to win his fifth green jacket (the prestigious symbol of a Masters winner) at 9:1 odds. This compares to the defending campion, Sergio Garcia, at 25:1. Other favorites like Jordan Speith, Justin Thomas, and Rory McIlroy are 10:1.
Predictions
Personally, I do not think Tiger will win. Even with his recent good play in 2013 and 2014 he was unable to capture a Major championship. He has not won a major championship in 10 years, but then again, he is Tiger Woods. However, he is almost 40 years old, so that’s something else to consider.
Who then will win? I think the tournament is as wide open as it has ever been. Some have speculated about Phil Mickelson because of his recent win in Mexico. However, at 47, he might just be a little “long in the tooth.” Jack Nicklaus won in 1986 at 46, but Phil is not Jack.
There is no doubt that this will be an exciting Masters tournament, as it always is. Stay tuned!
