Golf doctor’s unanswered questions

I answer readers’ questions from time to time, but today I’m asking the questions. The first one concerns the media firestorm created by two-time major champion Colin Morikawa, with his refusal to face the media after his one-stroke loss to Russell Henley on March 9 at the Arnold Palmer Invitational tournament. After his snub of the press at Bay Hill, Golf Channel broadcasters criticized Morikawa. At one point, Morikawa dug himself in deeper with the words “I don’t owe anyone anything.” He followed that with this statement: “I might bite my tongue after saying this, but to the Brandel Chamblees, to the Paul McGinleys, to the Rocco Mediates of the world, I don’t regret anything I said.”

Should we excuse Morikawa for avoiding his post-tournament responsibilities to the media or view Morikawa as a spoiled brat who snubbed the legacy of Arnold Palmer in the process of his tantrum? I vote for the latter. In contrast to Morikawa, Tiger Woods, at the height of his popularity, recognized that he owed everything to golf but he said, “golf doesn’t owe me a thing.” I would suggest that his posse corral Morikawa and explain that he does owe golf fans, the PGA Tour, the sponsors, the media, television and the golfing public for the marvelous opportunity he has in professional golf.

                My second question is about the PGA Tour/PIF-LIV negotiations that have dragged out almost two years. I’m wondering, does anybody care if no agreement is made? I think the PGA Tour has such an abundance of talent – and more emerging each year – along with a tournament schedule that is more entertaining than ever, that the LIV group can go their own way.

                Next, when is someone going to build a real nine-hole golf course in Las Cruces. A 9-holer would be great for seniors, kids just learning golf, and others who just don’t want to spend 4 to 6 hours on an 18-hole round. I enjoy playing 9 holes, which takes less than two hours in mid-afternoon.

                How long will it be before divots on the fairways are considered as “ground under repair,” which means a golfer is entitled to a free drop of one club length, not closer to the hole. Golf’s ruling bodies have all approved of removing stones and other matter from sand bunkers without a penalty and given the OK to tamping down “spike marks” on the greens. So, why not divots?

                I continue to wonder why we don’t have a First Tee here in Las Cruces. The closest First Tee is in El Paso. First Tee was founded in 1997 by then PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem, with key partnerships that include the PGA of America, LPGA, USGA and the Masters Tournament Foundation. The primary strategy of First Tee, serving youth ages 7 through 14, is to improve children’s life skills through involvement in golf. But the program goes much further than that, and emphasizes developing strength of character, gaining self-confidence, and empowering achieving personal goals. Go to www.firsttee.org.

Charlie Blanchard is a retired golf teacher and writer. He worked with NMSU’s head coach for men’s golf, Herb Wimberly, and is credentialed by the PGA for playing ability. He can be reached at docblanchard71@gmail.com.