Las Vegas – Shimmering Like a Mirage in the Desert [las vegas golf]
Most people believe they know all there is to know about Las Vegas – Sin City, founded by gangsters, a purely gambling-based economy, flowing with booze, feeding addictions, anything goes. After all, what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas – right?
Oddly enough, the truth of Las Vegas is far stranger than what people believe.
Las Vegas celebrated its 100th birthday in 2005, making it one of the youngest cities in America. But people were coming to the Las Vegas Valley long before its official designation as an incorporated city.
It was, as many still see it, an oasis in the desert. Literally. An oasis with trees and a spring where wagon trains carrying supplies from Los Angeles to the Mormon capital in Salt Lake City could stop to rest and refill their water barrels in the mid- to late 19th Century. The first non-Indian settlement was a small fort built on the orders of Mormon leader Brigham Young in 1855; although abandoned two years later, it still stands today as a museum on Las Vegas Boulevard. [las vegas golf]
While Mormons always have played – and continue to have – a significant role in “Sin City” especially in the financial community, they are not alone in terms of religious influence. Las Vegas may have more ways and places to gamble than anywhere else on Earth, but it also is home to hundreds of houses of worship, representing an extremely wide range of religions.
Mining – especially silver – was the next major attraction bringing people to the area. As often was the case that was soon followed by a rail line. And that oasis of water made Las Vegas a major rail stop, where steam locomotives – and crew and passengers – could pick up water.
The railroad – then agriculture – joined mining as the linchpins of the Las Vegas economy for nearly half a century. And while all of those involved in those enterprises were known to play poker and other games of chance, the first formal gambling licenses were not issued until 1911.
But it was another new state law making divorce quick and easy that actually spurred the arrival of short-term visitors and money, most of them staying at small “dude ranches” – precursors, in a way, to today’s luxury hotel/casinos along The Strip. [las vegas golf]
A precedent of sorts was set in 1931, when Las Vegas first experienced what has seemed a near invincibility to the economic downturns that have affected the rest of the nation through the decades. With the Depression well underway, the Las Vegas economy experienced a boom with the arrival of thousands of workers building the giant Hoover (aka Boulder) Dam. Those in charge, however, didn’t want their workers losing all their money – and sleep – gambling, so they built the non-gambling town of Boulder City to house them.
The next boom was World War II and the construction of Nellis Air Force Base, which remains one of the largest and most important Air Force facilities in the country.
It was not until after the war that the foundation for today’s gaming industry came into being – along with the short but storied career of one "Bugsy" Siegel and the Flamingo, which still stands (albeit considerably changed over the years) at the heart of The Strip. It also was then that gambling and tourism took over as the engine for Las Vegas’ future growth.
And considerable growth it has been. As late as 1960, the entire population of Clark County barely exceeded 100,000. Today, it is pushing – if not already over – 2 million, with an estimated 5000-to-6000 net new residents arriving every month.
Which brings up another, major misconception: The vast majority of tourists who come to Las Vegas never actually set foot in Las Vegas. The city itself is a relatively small part of the greater metropolitan area – and does not include The Strip, McCarran International Airport, the Las Vegas Convention Center or even the University of Nevada-Las Vegas.
McCarran is the nation’s fifth busiest airport; unlike those above it on that list, however, McCarran is not a hub, where many passengers are simply changing planes and never leave the airport. To paraphrase the city’s motto, those who fly into Vegas, stay in Vegas. At least, for an average of 3.4 nights.
The airport, which sits on the southeast edge of The Strip and has no room left to grow, will reach maximum capacity by decade’s end. A new airport has been proposed for about 30 miles outside Vegas, to siphon off much of the international and other long-distance flights. If built, their combined maximum capacity will be about 90 million passengers a year, sometime in the 2020s – about double the current rate.
Las Vegas is the world’s unchallenged king of hotels, boasting more than 140,000 rooms by the end of 2007 and more than 175,000 by the end of the decade. That tally includes 12 of the world’s 15 largest hotels – from current Number 1 MGM/Grand to soon-to-be new champion, the Venetian/Palazzo.
The same is true for convention space, with three of the nation’s largest convention centers plus hundreds of thousands of more square feet of meeting space in all those hotels. The result: More than 22,000 conventions and trade shows every year – a number that is expected to grow dramatically as the available convention space increases by 50 percent in the next three years.
The average life of a hotel/casino is Las Vegas is about 25 years – making implosions of these huge complexes practically an annual festivity. In 2007, that “honor” is scheduled for the Stardust and possibly the Imperial Palace, although the recent change of ownership at Harrah’s (which just bought the adjoining IP) could change that. Others reportedly being measured for wrecking balls include the New Frontier, Riviera, Las Vegas Hilton (next to the Convention Center) and Sahara.
With some coming down, others going up and existing hotels adding new towers all the time, anyone who hasn’t been to Vegas in two or three years isn’t likely to recognize it the next time they visit. That has been true for decades and almost certainly will remain true for decades to come.
At the moment, the biggest change in the skyline is the appearance of dozens of new high-rise condominiums – what some call the “Manhattanization” of Las Vegas. But all those new residents have to live somewhere – and, increasingly, they don’t want that to be 30 miles out in the desert. Which is why the bulk of the high-rises are going up within a block of The Strip.
With all those new residents, it shouldn’t be a surprise that Clark County – which comprises the Las Vegas metro area – is the fifth largest school district in the nation. About a dozen new schools open every year – many of them over-crowded on day one.
Las Vegas also is becoming a major medical center, not because of some 15 major medical facilities, but because of its expanding investment and growth in cutting-edge medical technology, training and development. In fact, the Nevada Development Authority predicts Las Vegas one day will be as well known as a center for high tech medicine as it is for gambling.
It already has become known as a major culinary center, with a goodly portion of visitors coming as much to enjoy dozens of world-class restaurants as to gamble. Or watch dozens of world-class shows, including five different productions by Cirque de Soleil. Or shop at some of the nation’s largest – and most unusual – shopping centers. Or play golf on some 60 courses, among them many by the world’s top championship designers.
Las Vegas remains – and almost certainly always will be – the world’s premier destination for gambling and adult entertainment. Always changing, like a shimmering mirage in the desert, it is a place that is always new, no matter how many times you visit.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Improve Your Golf Swing - Tips For A Better Game
Improve Your Golf Swing - Tips For A Better Game [las vegas golf]
There are some fundamental rules to the game of golf. Serious golfers often disagree on what the basics consist of, but if you are among the millions who desperately want to improve their golf swing, these basic tips will help you tremendously and save you a lot of frustration.
The three most important steps you should keep in mind are to keep your head perfectly still, relax your muscles, and keep your club head traveling in a straight line while making contact with the ball. The simple act of keeping your head still throughout your shot can improve your swing immediately. By keeping your club head in a straight line while making contact with the ball, you will avoid slicing and several other undesirable results. [las vegas golf]
Relaxing your muscles will aid you tremendously in keeping the proper balance. Balance is imperative to a good golf swing. Stand comfortably so you can reach the ball easily and remember that the muscles that propel the ball are the same muscles that twist the body and are the most powerful. No matter what stroke you are making or what club you are playing with, balance is the foundation to a good golf swing, and you must keep your muscles relaxed to achieve perfect balance. Balance really is the cure-all for many faults of golf. Think about keeping your head still and maintaining your balance at all times and you will have a foundation for an excellent golf game.
In the game of golf, no two people ever swing at the ball in the same way. Because of your individual body build, you develop your own individual set of muscles. A method of swinging a golf club used by one person who is of a different build and has developed a different set of muscles may not be of value to you. Golf will always be an individual sport. Find the method of playing that will produce results for you, and then go with it. When you are ready to play a game, and you are faced with a shot, make your decision on how you are going to do things. Do not be persuaded to change your methods every time you have a bad game. [las vegas golf]
Make sure you keep your eye on the ball and that any stance you take will allow you to see the ball from every point of the stroke. If your golf swing is off, go back to these fundamental rules and plan each shot in advance. Take your time and develop your own methods that work best for you, but keep in mind these basic principles and you will notice a definite improvement in your golf game.
There are some fundamental rules to the game of golf. Serious golfers often disagree on what the basics consist of, but if you are among the millions who desperately want to improve their golf swing, these basic tips will help you tremendously and save you a lot of frustration.
The three most important steps you should keep in mind are to keep your head perfectly still, relax your muscles, and keep your club head traveling in a straight line while making contact with the ball. The simple act of keeping your head still throughout your shot can improve your swing immediately. By keeping your club head in a straight line while making contact with the ball, you will avoid slicing and several other undesirable results. [las vegas golf]
Relaxing your muscles will aid you tremendously in keeping the proper balance. Balance is imperative to a good golf swing. Stand comfortably so you can reach the ball easily and remember that the muscles that propel the ball are the same muscles that twist the body and are the most powerful. No matter what stroke you are making or what club you are playing with, balance is the foundation to a good golf swing, and you must keep your muscles relaxed to achieve perfect balance. Balance really is the cure-all for many faults of golf. Think about keeping your head still and maintaining your balance at all times and you will have a foundation for an excellent golf game.
In the game of golf, no two people ever swing at the ball in the same way. Because of your individual body build, you develop your own individual set of muscles. A method of swinging a golf club used by one person who is of a different build and has developed a different set of muscles may not be of value to you. Golf will always be an individual sport. Find the method of playing that will produce results for you, and then go with it. When you are ready to play a game, and you are faced with a shot, make your decision on how you are going to do things. Do not be persuaded to change your methods every time you have a bad game. [las vegas golf]
Make sure you keep your eye on the ball and that any stance you take will allow you to see the ball from every point of the stroke. If your golf swing is off, go back to these fundamental rules and plan each shot in advance. Take your time and develop your own methods that work best for you, but keep in mind these basic principles and you will notice a definite improvement in your golf game.
The Other Golf Games - Alternative Golf
The Other Golf Games - Alternative Golf [las vegas golf]
Most people are barely aware of alternative golf games. If you're a golfer or have some interest in golf, you pay attention to the Professional Golf Association (PGA) and maybe even watch the Golf Channel.
The golf game we know is played according to the rules of the United States Golf Association (USGA) and the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, Scotland (R&A). However, there is, shall we say, an underground of golf games played by millions.
These golf games are called alternative golf. They can be classified by:
- Change in golf courses
- Change in golf rules
- Change in equipment
- Miscellaneous
Change of Golf Courses [las vegas golf]
The typical golf course - called a championship course is roughly 7,000 yards usually peppered with hazards such as woods, narrow fairways, bunkers, and water hazards. However, we have golf courses that are less difficult to play, such as:
Executive courses which can vary in distance and difficulty, but they usually have several holes with pars of 4. [las vegas golf]
Par Three courses are much easier than executive courses, and all the holes have a par of three.
Distances that you easily reach the green with a nine iron characterize pitch and Putt courses.
There is also a category of golf course called a short championship course. These courses are usually fairly difficult, but the overall distances are much shorter such as 5,000 yards.
A primitive golf course can take on a number of forms, including pastures and parkland. The grasses may be cut short, but the greens can take on any number of forms. They could be sand or well-manicured greens.
Perhaps the most well known alternative golf game is miniature golf or putt-putt golf. Of course, miniature golf is a drastic change in the golf course.
Change in Golf Rules
Less know are golf games that have made significant changes in the rules as administered by the USGA and R&A. Most were created to make the game of golf easier for the recreational or casual golfer. Two such golf games are:
TeeGolf is a game characterized primarily by the use of tees anywhere on the golf course except the green. Players may improve their lies and take Mulligans without penalty. There are no restrictions of what type of golf clubs or golf balls that a player can use, giving the recreational golfer a better chance of hitting the ball farther.
SortaGolf is a golf game characterized by the player being able to improve their lies plus take one Mulligan per 9-hole round. As in TeeGolf, there are no restrictions on golf clubs and golf balls.
Change in Equipment
The major golf game where the equipment is changed is disc golf. The Frisbee-type discs are thrown at a basket-type apparatus. The game is scored by the number of times you throw the disc to reach the basket.
Miscellaneous
There are several miscellaneous golf games that are hard to classify.
Speed golf is played on any regular golf course where the players play by USGA rules, but they run the course. The score is obtained by combining the number of strokes and the running time.
Extreme golf is played at a ski resort where the players start out at the top of the ski lift. They then hit the ball to the start of the lift. The number of strokes it takes to run the lift 9 or 18 times tallies the score.
Snow golf is played on any regular course in the snow. Rather than hitting the ball into the hole, the players have to get the ball into a circle usually 6 feet in diameter.
While this is not a comprehensive list of alternative golf games, but these cover the primary golf games that we play other than what we commonly call "golf."
Go out and try an alternative golf game. You'll enjoy it!
Most people are barely aware of alternative golf games. If you're a golfer or have some interest in golf, you pay attention to the Professional Golf Association (PGA) and maybe even watch the Golf Channel.
The golf game we know is played according to the rules of the United States Golf Association (USGA) and the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, Scotland (R&A). However, there is, shall we say, an underground of golf games played by millions.
These golf games are called alternative golf. They can be classified by:
- Change in golf courses
- Change in golf rules
- Change in equipment
- Miscellaneous
Change of Golf Courses [las vegas golf]
The typical golf course - called a championship course is roughly 7,000 yards usually peppered with hazards such as woods, narrow fairways, bunkers, and water hazards. However, we have golf courses that are less difficult to play, such as:
Executive courses which can vary in distance and difficulty, but they usually have several holes with pars of 4. [las vegas golf]
Par Three courses are much easier than executive courses, and all the holes have a par of three.
Distances that you easily reach the green with a nine iron characterize pitch and Putt courses.
There is also a category of golf course called a short championship course. These courses are usually fairly difficult, but the overall distances are much shorter such as 5,000 yards.
A primitive golf course can take on a number of forms, including pastures and parkland. The grasses may be cut short, but the greens can take on any number of forms. They could be sand or well-manicured greens.
Perhaps the most well known alternative golf game is miniature golf or putt-putt golf. Of course, miniature golf is a drastic change in the golf course.
Change in Golf Rules
Less know are golf games that have made significant changes in the rules as administered by the USGA and R&A. Most were created to make the game of golf easier for the recreational or casual golfer. Two such golf games are:
TeeGolf is a game characterized primarily by the use of tees anywhere on the golf course except the green. Players may improve their lies and take Mulligans without penalty. There are no restrictions of what type of golf clubs or golf balls that a player can use, giving the recreational golfer a better chance of hitting the ball farther.
SortaGolf is a golf game characterized by the player being able to improve their lies plus take one Mulligan per 9-hole round. As in TeeGolf, there are no restrictions on golf clubs and golf balls.
Change in Equipment
The major golf game where the equipment is changed is disc golf. The Frisbee-type discs are thrown at a basket-type apparatus. The game is scored by the number of times you throw the disc to reach the basket.
Miscellaneous
There are several miscellaneous golf games that are hard to classify.
Speed golf is played on any regular golf course where the players play by USGA rules, but they run the course. The score is obtained by combining the number of strokes and the running time.
Extreme golf is played at a ski resort where the players start out at the top of the ski lift. They then hit the ball to the start of the lift. The number of strokes it takes to run the lift 9 or 18 times tallies the score.
Snow golf is played on any regular course in the snow. Rather than hitting the ball into the hole, the players have to get the ball into a circle usually 6 feet in diameter.
While this is not a comprehensive list of alternative golf games, but these cover the primary golf games that we play other than what we commonly call "golf."
Go out and try an alternative golf game. You'll enjoy it!
Monday, December 10, 2007
USGA Golf vs. SortaGolf vs. TeeGolf
USGA Golf vs. SortaGolf vs. TeeGolf [golf usga las vegas]
With the plateauing of the golf population around the world, many people are leaving the game of golf. They leave because of the cost (clubs plus greens fees) and the admitted difficulty of the game.
People become frustrated when they can't play to some standard, usually set by professional golfers and the stated par on all golf courses. Very few golfers are scratch golfers; probably less than 1% can claim to be scratch golfers, if that.
Also, few recreational golfers or casual golfers play strictly by the United States Golf Association (USGA) or the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, Scotland (R&A) rules. It would be interesting to see what percent of golfers actually try to play be all the rules. It's likely very low.
Golfers take Mulligans, improve their lies, and take "gimmes." That's the reality.
We say "so what?"
Enter SortaGolf and TeeGolf.
SortaGolf was created by Donn Glenn a number of years ago basically to free recreational and casual golfers from the strict and hard-to-remember golf rules established by the United States Golf Association (USGA). He is the commissioner of the SortaGolf Association of America. [golf usga las vegas]
TeeGolf was created by Chuck Peterson in 2003 as another attempt to help recreational and casual golfers enjoy the game and just have fun golfing. His title is Head TeeGolfer.
This article contrasts some of the major differences between USGA golf, SortaGolf, and TeeGolf.
1. One common luxury many recreational golfers indulge in is hitting a Mulligan if they don't like their initial golf stroke.
USGA golf: No Mulligans! You can take a provisional ball if you think your ball will be lost. If you can't find your initial ball, you can play the provisional ball. If you find your initial ball, you can play it and ignore the provisional ball.
Or you can just take another stroke that will count against your final score.
SortaGolf: You can take one Mulligan per round. Assumed is that at round of golf equals 18 holes. Assumed is that the Mulligan doesn't count against the golfer's final score. The Mulligan can only be taken from the tee.
TeeGolf: Golfers can take 3 Mulligans per 9-hole round. Thus, 6 Mulligans per 18-hole round. This makes sense since most recreational or casual golfers play only 9 holes much of the time. The Mulligans don't count against the golfer's final score. Plus, they can be taken at any point on the golf course: tee box, fairway, rough, bunker, or green.
2. Some golfers use tees on other parts of the golf course than the tee box.
USGA golf: No tees permitted except on the tee box.
SortaGolf: Use of tees not addressed but assume that they can be used since recreational golfers are out for fun, not competition. [golf usga las vegas]
TeeGolf: Golfers may use a tee any place on the golf course except the greens.
3. Many golfers, when they're out for fun, take "gimmes" when their golf ball is within a certain distance from the cup.
USGA golf: No "gimmes" allowed.
SortaGolf: "Gimmes" allowed, in fact, encouraged.
TeeGolf: "Gimmes" not encouraged, but allowed between playing partners.
4. Often golfers improve their lies.
USGA golf: A golfer must play their ball where it lies, with some exceptions.
SortaGolf: Golfers may move their ball within one golf club length no closer to the pin.
TeeGolf: Golfers may move their ball as far back on a line from the pin through the original lie of the ball as they want within one club length on either side of that line. Plus, they can place the ball on a tee if they want.
5. Recreational golfers use all sorts of golf clubs and golf balls.
USGA golf: The USGA regulates the type of golf clubs that can be used. It maintains a list of "nonconforming" golf clubs that drive the ball too far. Also, certain golf balls are not approved for play for the very same reason. Plus, a golfer may only carry a maximum of 14 golf clubs.
SortaGolf: Golfers may use any golf clubs and golf balls they desire. No limit on the number of golf clubs.
TeeGolf: Golfers may use any golf clubs or golf balls they desire. No limit on the number of golf clubs.
6. Some recreational golfers only take so many strokes over par.
USGA golf: No allowance for a maximum score on each golf hole.
SortaGolf: Golfers only have to take a score of two strokes over the par for any given hole.
TeeGolf: No allowance for a maximum score on each golf hole.
There are other differences between USGA golf rules, SortaGolf rules, or TeeGolf rules. But these will not be covered here.
Basically, SortaGolf and TeeGolf, considered alternative golf games, have been invented to give the average recreational or casual golfer a chance to play the game of golf without all the restrictions and hard-to-grasp rules of the USGA. Nothing against the USGA.
But the revised rules should help the recreational golfer feel less guilty about not playing strictly by the USGA rules.
And why should they feel guilty? If somebody asks why they are not playing by the rules, they can tell them that they're playing another golf game: either SortaGolf or TeeGolf.
End of story.
by Charles Peterson
With the plateauing of the golf population around the world, many people are leaving the game of golf. They leave because of the cost (clubs plus greens fees) and the admitted difficulty of the game.
People become frustrated when they can't play to some standard, usually set by professional golfers and the stated par on all golf courses. Very few golfers are scratch golfers; probably less than 1% can claim to be scratch golfers, if that.
Also, few recreational golfers or casual golfers play strictly by the United States Golf Association (USGA) or the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, Scotland (R&A) rules. It would be interesting to see what percent of golfers actually try to play be all the rules. It's likely very low.
Golfers take Mulligans, improve their lies, and take "gimmes." That's the reality.
We say "so what?"
Enter SortaGolf and TeeGolf.
SortaGolf was created by Donn Glenn a number of years ago basically to free recreational and casual golfers from the strict and hard-to-remember golf rules established by the United States Golf Association (USGA). He is the commissioner of the SortaGolf Association of America. [golf usga las vegas]
TeeGolf was created by Chuck Peterson in 2003 as another attempt to help recreational and casual golfers enjoy the game and just have fun golfing. His title is Head TeeGolfer.
This article contrasts some of the major differences between USGA golf, SortaGolf, and TeeGolf.
1. One common luxury many recreational golfers indulge in is hitting a Mulligan if they don't like their initial golf stroke.
USGA golf: No Mulligans! You can take a provisional ball if you think your ball will be lost. If you can't find your initial ball, you can play the provisional ball. If you find your initial ball, you can play it and ignore the provisional ball.
Or you can just take another stroke that will count against your final score.
SortaGolf: You can take one Mulligan per round. Assumed is that at round of golf equals 18 holes. Assumed is that the Mulligan doesn't count against the golfer's final score. The Mulligan can only be taken from the tee.
TeeGolf: Golfers can take 3 Mulligans per 9-hole round. Thus, 6 Mulligans per 18-hole round. This makes sense since most recreational or casual golfers play only 9 holes much of the time. The Mulligans don't count against the golfer's final score. Plus, they can be taken at any point on the golf course: tee box, fairway, rough, bunker, or green.
2. Some golfers use tees on other parts of the golf course than the tee box.
USGA golf: No tees permitted except on the tee box.
SortaGolf: Use of tees not addressed but assume that they can be used since recreational golfers are out for fun, not competition. [golf usga las vegas]
TeeGolf: Golfers may use a tee any place on the golf course except the greens.
3. Many golfers, when they're out for fun, take "gimmes" when their golf ball is within a certain distance from the cup.
USGA golf: No "gimmes" allowed.
SortaGolf: "Gimmes" allowed, in fact, encouraged.
TeeGolf: "Gimmes" not encouraged, but allowed between playing partners.
4. Often golfers improve their lies.
USGA golf: A golfer must play their ball where it lies, with some exceptions.
SortaGolf: Golfers may move their ball within one golf club length no closer to the pin.
TeeGolf: Golfers may move their ball as far back on a line from the pin through the original lie of the ball as they want within one club length on either side of that line. Plus, they can place the ball on a tee if they want.
5. Recreational golfers use all sorts of golf clubs and golf balls.
USGA golf: The USGA regulates the type of golf clubs that can be used. It maintains a list of "nonconforming" golf clubs that drive the ball too far. Also, certain golf balls are not approved for play for the very same reason. Plus, a golfer may only carry a maximum of 14 golf clubs.
SortaGolf: Golfers may use any golf clubs and golf balls they desire. No limit on the number of golf clubs.
TeeGolf: Golfers may use any golf clubs or golf balls they desire. No limit on the number of golf clubs.
6. Some recreational golfers only take so many strokes over par.
USGA golf: No allowance for a maximum score on each golf hole.
SortaGolf: Golfers only have to take a score of two strokes over the par for any given hole.
TeeGolf: No allowance for a maximum score on each golf hole.
There are other differences between USGA golf rules, SortaGolf rules, or TeeGolf rules. But these will not be covered here.
Basically, SortaGolf and TeeGolf, considered alternative golf games, have been invented to give the average recreational or casual golfer a chance to play the game of golf without all the restrictions and hard-to-grasp rules of the USGA. Nothing against the USGA.
But the revised rules should help the recreational golfer feel less guilty about not playing strictly by the USGA rules.
And why should they feel guilty? If somebody asks why they are not playing by the rules, they can tell them that they're playing another golf game: either SortaGolf or TeeGolf.
End of story.
by Charles Peterson
The Other Golf Games - Alternative Golf
The Other Golf Games - Alternative Golf [golf las vegas]
Most people are barely aware of alternative golf games. If you're a golfer or have some interest in golf, you pay attention to the Professional Golf Association (PGA) and maybe even watch the Golf Channel.
The golf game we know is played according to the rules of the United States Golf Association (USGA) and the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, Scotland (R&A). However, there is, shall we say, an underground of golf games played by millions.
These golf games are called alternative golf. They can be classified by:
- Change in golf courses
- Change in golf rules
- Change in equipment
- Miscellaneous
Change of Golf Courses
The typical golf course - called a championship course is roughly 7,000 yards usually peppered with hazards such as woods, narrow fairways, bunkers, and water hazards. However, we have golf courses that are less difficult to play, such as:
Executive courses which can vary in distance and difficulty, but they usually have several holes with pars of 4. [golf las vegas]
Par Three courses are much easier than executive courses, and all the holes have a par of three.
Distances that you easily reach the green with a nine iron characterize pitch and Putt courses.
There is also a category of golf course called a short championship course. These courses are usually fairly difficult, but the overall distances are much shorter such as 5,000 yards.
A primitive golf course can take on a number of forms, including pastures and parkland. The grasses may be cut short, but the greens can take on any number of forms. They could be sand or well-manicured greens.
Perhaps the most well known alternative golf game is miniature golf or putt-putt golf. Of course, miniature golf is a drastic change in the golf course.
Change in Golf Rules
Less know are golf games that have made significant changes in the rules as administered by the USGA and R&A. Most were created to make the game of golf easier for the recreational or casual golfer. Two such golf games are:
TeeGolf is a game characterized primarily by the use of tees anywhere on the golf course except the green. Players may improve their lies and take Mulligans without penalty. There are no restrictions of what type of golf clubs or golf balls that a player can use, giving the recreational golfer a better chance of hitting the ball farther.
SortaGolf is a golf game characterized by the player being able to improve their lies plus take one Mulligan per 9-hole round. As in TeeGolf, there are no restrictions on golf clubs and golf balls. [golf las vegas]
Change in Equipment
The major golf game where the equipment is changed is disc golf. The Frisbee-type discs are thrown at a basket-type apparatus. The game is scored by the number of times you throw the disc to reach the basket.
Miscellaneous
There are several miscellaneous golf games that are hard to classify.
Speed golf is played on any regular golf course where the players play by USGA rules, but they run the course. The score is obtained by combining the number of strokes and the running time.
Extreme golf is played at a ski resort where the players start out at the top of the ski lift. They then hit the ball to the start of the lift. The number of strokes it takes to run the lift 9 or 18 times tallies the score.
Snow golf is played on any regular course in the snow. Rather than hitting the ball into the hole, the players have to get the ball into a circle usually 6 feet in diameter.
While this is not a comprehensive list of alternative golf games, but these cover the primary golf games that we play other than what we commonly call "golf."
Go out and try an alternative golf game. You'll enjoy it!
by Charles Peterson
Most people are barely aware of alternative golf games. If you're a golfer or have some interest in golf, you pay attention to the Professional Golf Association (PGA) and maybe even watch the Golf Channel.
The golf game we know is played according to the rules of the United States Golf Association (USGA) and the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, Scotland (R&A). However, there is, shall we say, an underground of golf games played by millions.
These golf games are called alternative golf. They can be classified by:
- Change in golf courses
- Change in golf rules
- Change in equipment
- Miscellaneous
Change of Golf Courses
The typical golf course - called a championship course is roughly 7,000 yards usually peppered with hazards such as woods, narrow fairways, bunkers, and water hazards. However, we have golf courses that are less difficult to play, such as:
Executive courses which can vary in distance and difficulty, but they usually have several holes with pars of 4. [golf las vegas]
Par Three courses are much easier than executive courses, and all the holes have a par of three.
Distances that you easily reach the green with a nine iron characterize pitch and Putt courses.
There is also a category of golf course called a short championship course. These courses are usually fairly difficult, but the overall distances are much shorter such as 5,000 yards.
A primitive golf course can take on a number of forms, including pastures and parkland. The grasses may be cut short, but the greens can take on any number of forms. They could be sand or well-manicured greens.
Perhaps the most well known alternative golf game is miniature golf or putt-putt golf. Of course, miniature golf is a drastic change in the golf course.
Change in Golf Rules
Less know are golf games that have made significant changes in the rules as administered by the USGA and R&A. Most were created to make the game of golf easier for the recreational or casual golfer. Two such golf games are:
TeeGolf is a game characterized primarily by the use of tees anywhere on the golf course except the green. Players may improve their lies and take Mulligans without penalty. There are no restrictions of what type of golf clubs or golf balls that a player can use, giving the recreational golfer a better chance of hitting the ball farther.
SortaGolf is a golf game characterized by the player being able to improve their lies plus take one Mulligan per 9-hole round. As in TeeGolf, there are no restrictions on golf clubs and golf balls. [golf las vegas]
Change in Equipment
The major golf game where the equipment is changed is disc golf. The Frisbee-type discs are thrown at a basket-type apparatus. The game is scored by the number of times you throw the disc to reach the basket.
Miscellaneous
There are several miscellaneous golf games that are hard to classify.
Speed golf is played on any regular golf course where the players play by USGA rules, but they run the course. The score is obtained by combining the number of strokes and the running time.
Extreme golf is played at a ski resort where the players start out at the top of the ski lift. They then hit the ball to the start of the lift. The number of strokes it takes to run the lift 9 or 18 times tallies the score.
Snow golf is played on any regular course in the snow. Rather than hitting the ball into the hole, the players have to get the ball into a circle usually 6 feet in diameter.
While this is not a comprehensive list of alternative golf games, but these cover the primary golf games that we play other than what we commonly call "golf."
Go out and try an alternative golf game. You'll enjoy it!
by Charles Peterson
Invest Now In Las Vegas Real Estate!
Invest Now In Las Vegas Real Estate! [invest las vegas]
Invest Now In Las Vegas Real Estate!
If you have been thinking about buying property in Las Vegas, don't waste any more time thinking. Real estate investments are a sensible choice for any investor and to invest in a popular place like Las Vegas can't be wrong now or in the future.
Right now the median home price in Las Vegas is $310,000. That is down 2.5% year over year. It was inevitable to see some type of correction in THE hypermarket of the 90's.
You can still make a killing out of your investment; if you get the timing right and you buy into the right area. Property prices in Las Vegas are down and distress sales are on the rise as a number of players got into the speculation game late and are losing thousands a month.
Remember, in real estate, it's not what you sell it for; it's what you buy it for! Here are a few reasons why you should go ahead with your plans and invest in this market regardless of a downturn:
1. No state tax - Nevada does not charge corporate or personal income tax. This fact alone is sometimes the difference between profit and loss and makes Nevada a hot market for that reason alone.
2. Limitless business opportunities - The market is expanding for businesses in Las Vegas all the time. Realize that two major industries need to be supported in Las Vegas, gaming and housing.
3. Las Vegas weather - Fantastic all year round. No hurricanes or real threats from earthquakes make this a fantastic choice. [invest las vegas]
4. Tourism - Vegas will always be a favorite destination for tourists and business alike.
Understand that Las Vegas itself is a draw in that while Vegas will feel pressure from other areas coming online with gaming, not many are going to be able to compete with all of the things that make Vegas, Vegas. For that reason the market as a whole will continue to expand.
While current market conditions are weaker than a year ago, the exemption from state taxes alone is a big draw for individuals and businesses.
When looking at new markets to invest, there aren't many that compare to Las Vegas in opportunities or attractions. From gaming and entertainment to sight seeing and tax advantages you shouldn't waste any more time. Time lost is money lost; it's time to invest in Las Vegas, today![invest las vegas]
by Darren Slaughter
Invest Now In Las Vegas Real Estate!
If you have been thinking about buying property in Las Vegas, don't waste any more time thinking. Real estate investments are a sensible choice for any investor and to invest in a popular place like Las Vegas can't be wrong now or in the future.
Right now the median home price in Las Vegas is $310,000. That is down 2.5% year over year. It was inevitable to see some type of correction in THE hypermarket of the 90's.
You can still make a killing out of your investment; if you get the timing right and you buy into the right area. Property prices in Las Vegas are down and distress sales are on the rise as a number of players got into the speculation game late and are losing thousands a month.
Remember, in real estate, it's not what you sell it for; it's what you buy it for! Here are a few reasons why you should go ahead with your plans and invest in this market regardless of a downturn:
1. No state tax - Nevada does not charge corporate or personal income tax. This fact alone is sometimes the difference between profit and loss and makes Nevada a hot market for that reason alone.
2. Limitless business opportunities - The market is expanding for businesses in Las Vegas all the time. Realize that two major industries need to be supported in Las Vegas, gaming and housing.
3. Las Vegas weather - Fantastic all year round. No hurricanes or real threats from earthquakes make this a fantastic choice. [invest las vegas]
4. Tourism - Vegas will always be a favorite destination for tourists and business alike.
Understand that Las Vegas itself is a draw in that while Vegas will feel pressure from other areas coming online with gaming, not many are going to be able to compete with all of the things that make Vegas, Vegas. For that reason the market as a whole will continue to expand.
While current market conditions are weaker than a year ago, the exemption from state taxes alone is a big draw for individuals and businesses.
When looking at new markets to invest, there aren't many that compare to Las Vegas in opportunities or attractions. From gaming and entertainment to sight seeing and tax advantages you shouldn't waste any more time. Time lost is money lost; it's time to invest in Las Vegas, today![invest las vegas]
by Darren Slaughter
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
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