⛳ Nick Dunlap's Caddie Inspires, Bing Crosby Golf Wear, LIV Golf Movement, and more.
⛳ Nick Dunlap's Caddie Inspires, Bing Crosby Golf Wear, LIV Golf Movement, and more.
Nick Dunlap's caddie had a message for him and I explore the importance of positive influences.
Welcome back to the Baller Golf newsletter.
I hope you enjoyed the Nick Dunlap victory as much as I did. With all the drama in the world of golf recently I think we needed a positive boost and this was a story that certainly did that. This week’s main feature (section 5) explores another element of that story, featuring his Caddie, that will put a smile on your face.
I’ll also take a look at the new Bing Crosby collection from Adidas and Malbon Golf, a fashion collaboration that I didn’t see coming. We also have some updates on player movements involving LIV.
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Section 1: The Tee Off - Key stories from the world of golf.
LIV Golf Signs World No. 39 Adrian Meronk. Meronk, with four victories on the DP World Tour but unfortunately omitted from the victorious European Ryder Cup squad, is set to join Martin Kaymer’s Cleeks team. His recent runner-up placement to Rory McIlroy at the Hero Dubai Classic has propelled him to a career-best 39th position in the world rankings.
Several reports claim that England’s Tyrrell Hatton is ‘close’ to signing for LIV Golf. Englishman Hatton, ranked 16 in the world, partnered Jon Rahm at last year’s Ryder Cup and appears likely to follow the Spaniard.
Nick Dunlap turns professional after winning PGA Tour event as an amateur. Following his La Quinta triumph, Dunlap will begin his professional career at Pebble Beach next week. He is now exempt from all full-field tournaments and the seven remaining big-money signature events on the PGA Tour this year.
He will also be in the field for the Players Championship in March as well as the Masters, US PGA and US Open. (See Main Feature for more on Nick)
Section 2: The Business of Golf - Business news from the golf industry.
PGA Show reports growth of international exhibitors and attendees
The PGA Show, held at the Orange County Convention Centre, kicked off its 2024 edition, boasting a significant international presence. With over 200 exhibitors from 25 countries and attendees from more than 80 nations, including 12% of the show floor occupied by non-US companies, the event underscores its global impact.
Trackman, a leading Danish manufacturer of simulators and range solutions, highlighted its growing participation in the PGA Show, emphasizing its longstanding collaboration with top industry professionals and the value of connecting with partners old and new.
The PGA Show's global significance extends beyond the exhibition floor, facilitating interactions between industry players from Latin America, Asia, Europe, and beyond. Through partnerships and initiatives, the PGA of America is actively expanding its reach and engagement across regions, further solidifying the event's status as a cornerstone of the international golf community.
Section 3: Fairway to Runway - The latest from brands evolving golf fashion.
Adidas and Malbon Golf Introduce the Crosby Collection
Adidas and Malbon Golf are launching a special capsule collection, "The Crosby Collection," inspired by Bing Crosby's iconic Clambake event, known for its fusion of golf, fashion, and entertainment. This limited-edition release features apparel and footwear for both men and women, drawing inspiration from the fashion of the 1930s and 1940s.
The collection pays homage to the spirit of Bing Crosby's Clambakes, offering modern interpretations of classic silhouettes from that era. For men, pieces include button-down polos, pleated trousers, crewnecks, and an iconic cardigan, while women's options feature a colour-blocked dress, polos with unique sleeve designs, and form-fitting culotte pants. All items incorporate Adidas' advanced technology suitable for golfing.
Dylan Moore, creative director at Adidas Golf, expresses the collection's intent to honour the historical significance of golf fashion while acknowledging its enduring influence on contemporary style. Malbon Golf co-founder Stephen Malbon emphasizes the collection's tribute to Bing Crosby's legacy and his Clambake tradition, which embodied the timeless connection between sport, style, and camaraderie.
In addition to the apparel range, the collection includes accessories such as a checkered anorak, clam decanter-themed T-shirts, and a 5-panel hat. Two limited-edition footwear models, the Stan Smith Golf and the MC87, blending performance and style, will also be available.
The Crosby Collection launches on January 29, exclusively on adidas.com, the Adidas app, malbongolf.com, and select Adidas and Malbon Golf retail outlets. It will be available in limited quantities, with the collection hitting shelves in Japan and Korea on January 30.
Quick Poll
Section 4: Upgrade Your Bag - The latest equipment to elevate your game.
Arccos launches Link Pro for in-pocket GPS stat tracking
Arccos has revolutionized stat-tracking for golfers with its GPS-driven system, often likened to ShotLink for everyday players. Now, they've introduced the Link Pro, taking in-round shot and stat recording to new levels of convenience and precision.
The Link Pro is very small, making it easy to slip into your front pocket without notice. Measuring just under two inches tall and three-quarters of an inch thick, and weighing less than 25 grams, it's designed for minimal interference during play.
The Link Pro represents a technological leap forward, boasting more powerful microphones that accurately capture shots and club data with remarkable clarity. This upgrade ensures seamless tracking without the need for external positioning devices like the previous Link or even an Apple Watch.
With its compact size and advanced features, the Link Pro offers golfers a hassle-free way to capture and analyze their performance on the course, enhancing the overall Arccos experience.
The Link Pro retails for $225/£199.99
Section 5: Spotlight - Your weekly feature explores a topic I am inspired to deep dive.
Nick Dunlap's Historic Win and the Power of Positive Mentorship
We witnessed history at The American Express as 20-year-old Nick Dunlap, a University of Alabama sophomore and reigning U.S. Amateur champion, became the first amateur in 33 years to claim victory on the PGA TOUR since Phil Mickelson. This remarkable achievement not only showcased Dunlap's talent but also highlighted the profound impact of strong, positive mentorship on young individuals.
In a stunning performance, Dunlap secured victory over Christiaan Bezuidenhout, holding his ground amidst the intense competition, marked by resilience and determination, is not just a tale of individual triumph but a testament to the influence of those who guide and support aspiring talents.
Behind Dunlap's success, we find a compelling narrative penned by his caddy, Hunter Hamrick. At a challenging moment last year playing in the US Am, Dunlap was struggling at 5 over after 7, when his caddy wrote this in his yardage book:
"This can be an AMAZING story if you let go and LET IT HAPPEN!!!"
These motivational words became a driving force behind Dunlap's journey. They encapsulate the essence of positive mentorship—encouraging individuals to embrace challenges, let go of doubt, and allow their true potential to unfold.
Dunlap's caddy played a pivotal role in shaping this incredible story, emphasizing the importance of belief, resilience, and letting go of inhibitions.
As we celebrate Nick Dunlap's historic win, let’s also recognize the unsung heroes behind the scenes—the mentors, coaches, and guides who plant the seeds of belief in young talent, nurturing them to grow into champions.
Here’s an exchange between the two on Instagram following Nick’s most recent victory.
Congratulations, Nick Dunlap, on your extraordinary achievement, and to all the mentors shaping amazing stories through the power of positive influence!
That’s all for now. I’d love to hear your comments either below or you can reach out on X/Twitter
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