Scott Thomas came to terms with turning 50 a good year before he actually hit the milestone in November of 2007. "Two years ago, I wasn't very excited about it," Thomas said. "But in the year before turning 50, I started embracing it." PGA Tour pros have long called hitting the big 5-0 "golf's greatest mulligan." As Thomas approached the half century mark, he realized his opportunities to win with regularity looked more and more promising.

It was Berkmeyer, after all, who as a St. Ambrose University golfer spent some time with a young recruit from nearby Cedar Rapids, Iowa. At the request of his coach, Jeff Griebel, Berkmeyer checked out the credentials of the young Iowa golfer. "Coach, I don't think this guy's what we're looking for," Berkmeyer told his coach after his visit with high school senior Zach Johnson.

Is Stevie Williams that good? Or is Tiger Woods' softening with age? In any regard, news that Williams has retained the most desirable caddie job in the world after making headlines with a crude critique of Phil Mickelson would indicate that the Woods-Williams partnership is more than just business. Woods has dismissed one caddie for lesser crimes.

Is LPGA's loss of Sorenstam softened by advent of Michelle Wie era? First, let me say that Annika Sorenstam is one of the greatest golfers of all time. Her skill and graciousness are unmatched by any champion in golf over the last 35 years. Her decision to walk away to pursue other interests is a big loss to the LPGA franchise. But the sky is not falling.

St. Louisan Jay Williamson said he'd really like a Gift Card for Christmas.



No, not the kind that you can swipe for goods at Home Depot or Best Buy. This is a very specific Gift Card. Across the top it reads: PGA Tour Member.