Join us as we dive into the legendary PGA West, exploring its fascinating history, iconic holes, and the challenge it presents to players like us. Get a behind-the-scenes look at our upcoming month-long golf road trip, filled with camaraderie, strategy, and a whole lot of fun!

Key Topics

• The origins and evolution of PGA West and La Quinta in the 1970s
• The design and challenge of Pete Dye’s stadium course and iconic holes like 17
• Famous tournaments (Skins Game in 1986, American Express) and memorable moments
• Strategies for tough holes: to send or to lay up?
• Practical insights: equipment evolution, course conditions, and preparing for the trip
• Personal stories and banter between friends about golf adventures and experiences
• Planning the ultimate golf itinerary: courses, accommodations, and food

Timestamps

00:00 - Opening chat: cold weather frustrations and tropical escapes
02:03 - Club logistics: clubs, golf bag updates, and social media plans
04:23 - Details of the 30-day golf trip and expectations
06:24 - History of PGA West and its development from the 1970s
09:15 - Deep dive into the evolution of La Quinta and early golf legends
13:10 - The challenge of Pete Dye’s designs and the story behind the stadium course
16:35 - The 1986 Skins Game: iconic moments and televised drama
18:49 - The spectacle of stadium courses and their stadium-like design
26:12 - The infamous 17th island green: history and strategies
28:14 - Handling bunker shots on the fault-line at 16 and risk management
50:22 - The hypothetical: to send or lay up on the final hole, and decision making
55:56 - Analyzing challenging shots and mental approach in tournament situations
62:03 - The final shot scenario: going for glory or playing it safe?
67:09 - Celebrating the "Send It or Lay Up" champion and humorous bets
70:34 - Reflecting on equipment changes from past legends to today’s technology
74:13 - Comparing golf legends of yesteryear with modern pros under the influence of technology
79:04 - The excitement of experiencing PGA West in person versus TV
81:52 - Preparing mentally and physically for the trip, gaining knowledge from recent tournaments
83:11 - Personal workout plans and maintaining fitness for the adventure
84:10 - Final thoughts: sharing the journey, costs, and upcoming plans for food and lodging