THE 2023 U.S. SENIOR OPEN is less than a month away at Sentry World Golf course in Stevens Point Wisconsin. Steve Stricker is the favorite. Tickets and info USGA.org

The Gog Blog by Rory Spears, Director of Content and Creation for Golfers on Golf. With the U.S. Senior Open trophy at Sentry World.

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY…

A SPECIAL THANKS to all the veterans that have served our great country, and to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

When you are out golfing today, spend a moment to think about those who have served, or are currently in uniform.

So the good news about today, is that the weather will be great for a change, and great for golf. So go out and take advantage.

LET’S GO ILLINOIS-Coach Mike Small and the Illini have a great chance to win the national championship this year. Illinois is in first place heading into the final round of stroke play. The top 8 schools move on to match play on Tuesday. The national champion will be crowned on Wednesday.

ANOTHER CONGRATS to Illini Coach Small, on qualifying at Flossmoor Golf Club last week, to play in the 2023 U.S. Senior Open at Sentry World in Wisconsin.

SO HOW IS YOUR GOLF SEASON starting off so far. I have been making observations at the clubs I work at, and one thing stands out. The people complaining the most about their golf game, are people still trying to play with 1995 technology clubs. So if you won’t grade to something newer, even some lightly used clubs that are only 1-3 years old. Please don’t complain.

I KNOW it takes a pile of money to buy a new full set of clubs. But you don’t have to replace a full bag all at once. Start with a driver, or a putter and build around those clubs. Then invest in some new golf balls, that you did not find in a pond last summer, and then sat in your garage all winter. I could go on and on here, but there are some people who are need in need of new golf bags and shoes. Golf apparel is another subject I will save for another day, but if your still wearing the 2002 U.S. Open bucket hat, please do trade it in already.

THERE ARE REPORTS of some area courses not in the best shape for this time of year. But there are probably some good reasons for that. Staffing shortages in the maintenance area’s continue, and the spring has been very dry. So it’s been hard for crews to put down all the treatments course would normally get in a rainy spring.

CONGRATS to Medinah Director of Golf Marty DeAngelo, who is on his way to a new challenge in Naples Florida. ANOTHER CONGRATS to former Illinois PGA professional Mike Jones who has moved on from Suncadia Resort near Seattle, to Snoqualmie Ridge GC also in the Seattle area and home to a PGA Champions Tour Event.

THE GOG BLOG returns on Tuesday with more on the Illini. RS