http://www.geoffshackelford.com/
So I spend a small part of my day getting updates from this blog, which are usually the latest news and information fit to discuss in the world of golf. Today however, is explosive to say the least, depending on what you are willing to wager an opinion on.
Clintons out, Mickelson in at what was formerly the Bob Hope Desert Classic (man, do I miss him and Bing, and their great contribution to building the PGA Tour brand before it became a cesspool of corporate greed)
Muirfield votes to retain a male only membership. The debate over there is all about the rights of private clubs to associate freely, or give in to political correctness just to host a stupid golf tournament.
R&A basically gives Muirfield the middle finger because of their vote against allowing women members, by telling Muirfield they will not be in the Open rota until they allow women members. So now we can debate the merits of golf's ultimate governing body giving one of the most storied clubs the middle finger.
You gotta admit, no matter where you come down on these issues, it's fun to have something interesting to weigh in on. Not that you asked, but I'm thrilled that Mickelson finally gets to host a tournament, and equally as thrilled that the PGA Tour unloaded the toxic and polarizing Clinton cartel from that tournament in the desert.
I'm also firmly supporting Muirfield in keeping the membership of the club however they see fit. I am a firm advocate that freedom of association must be defended at all costs. I also have no problem with the R&A removing Muirfield from the Open rota. I'm sure the majority of members at Muirfield are saying something along the lines of, "Oh darn, we don't have to have our golf course destroyed once a decade or so to the mob of golf fans that comes with hosting an Open." Yeah, the R&A will miss Muirfield more than Muirfield will miss the R&A.
It kind of has shades of Pine Valley keeping their fabulous club away from the manipulating douchebags that run the USGA or PGA of America. Granted, the logistics don't work for Pine Valley hosting a US Open or a PGA, but I'm always rooting for freedom of association, versus cowtowing to political correctness.