Greetings Golfers,

I don’t watch a lot of television. I’m not trying say that I’m too cool or smart to watch a lot of tv, I just basically don’t have the time.

And what’s funny, even with all the channels, there’s not much that really interests me. Remember when there were only 3 major networks? And a local network such as WTCN had shows like “Lunch with Casey”? Back then I watched a ton of tv – it was the window to the world and we all shared it.

The next day at school we talked about who was on the “Ed Sullivan Show” or how cool Robert Conrad was on the “Wild, Wild, West.”

And every morning before school, my family watched the “Today Show.” Now, I watch “Morning Drive” on the Golf Channel. The Golf Channel began almost 20 years ago with the backing of Arnold Palmer. It was one of those goofy cable channels that didn’t make much sense or know what they’re doing. But a couple of years ago, NBC bought the Golf Channel and they’ve really ramped it up.

I especially enjoy the constant coverage during the major championships. Brandel Chamblee is a very insightful analyst of all aspects of golf – course set-up, golf swings, and especially the psychological. Gary Williams is a smooth host of “Morning Drive” and keeps the flow going. Holly Sonders is also an asset – not just because of her looks – she’s funny and brings a needed irreverence to the boys.

My television viewing has pretty much boiled down to “Madmen”, the History Channel, and the Golf Channel … pretty different from my days of “Lunch with Casey”, the “Beverly Hillbillies” and the “Joe Pine Show.”

Cheers,

Tom Abts
GM and Head Golf Professional
tabts@deerrungolf.com