FROM THE EDITOR

In magazine industry jargon, this issue offers readers a “split-run” cover. What that means is that we couldn’t make up our minds. With strong ClubCorp ties to two members of the U.S. Ryder Cup team, we decided they both deserved a cover. Therefore, some of you have received a magazine featuring David Toms, a member at Southern Trace Country Club in Shreveport, Louisiana. The rest of you have the edition featuring Scott Verplank, who was a junior golf champ at Brookhaven Country Club near Dallas, where he remains an honorary member. The contents of the magazines are identical.

On this page, I present both covers so you can appreciate the dilemma of such decision-making. Golf writer Russ Pate engages these two talented pro golfers in a conversation that provides insights about their thoughts and goals as they await the playing of the postponed 2001 Ryder Cup this September at The Belfry in Sutton Coldfield, England. By the way, the results of The Belfry’s three previous Ryder Cups are even, so the competition promises to be worth the wait. (Europe won in 1985; the teams tied in 1989; and the United States won in 1993.)

But while David and Scott prepare for this international event, most of us simply want to be ready for the new golf season at the club. If that sounds like you, bookmark this issue’s twofold prescription for a healthy game from The Pinehurst Company Golf Institute. First, complete the questionnaire and receive a personalized analysis of your game from one of the Institute’s top teaching pros. Second, follow instructor Tom Bennett’s advice about indoor practice. After all, spring is just around the corner.

Patricia Baldwin
Editor in Chief