089 - Badger Adventures

We discuss Bledge’s golf trip to Philadelphia and New Jersey with friends John and Sean. The trip was originally planned around Pine Valley, and connections through golf clubs and greenkeepers helped shape the itinerary after the initial plans changed. We describe Pine Valley as a standout experience, from its pine-framed holes, sandy areas in place of conventional rough and fast greens to its caddies, clubhouse and practice facilities. We also discuss the course’s history, its named features and the 10-hole short course. We visit Philadelphia Cricket Club, Golf Mills and Philadelphia Country Club. We compare their layouts, turf and rough, and talk about meeting superintendents and seeing maintenance facilities. At Aronimink, we discuss its challenging greens, course preparation and the organization of the maintenance operation. We compare American course presentation with conditions in the UK, including the effects of climate, irrigation, soil and grass types. We also discuss how very fast greens and thick rough shape the playing experience, while noting the value of variety between courses. At Merion, we talk about its wicker-basket flags, distinctive features, caddies and the experience of playing the course. We also share memories from the trip, including a memorable putt on the 10th hole, the group’s time in Philadelphia and Bledger’s return to golf after dealing with back problems. We explain how SubAir systems use the drainage network to move air and water through greens, helping with drainage and firmness. We discuss where the system may be useful and note that its effects on dew are uncertain. Send us a message if you would like anything discussed on the podcast.