PGA Tours: At the 2011 PGA Tour Northern Trust Open By David Milne

I am in Los Angeles at the US PGA Tour event (Northern Trust Open) this week working with my player US PGA Tour player Michael Sim. It is being played at the famous Riviera Country Club layout which was constructed in 1926 by architect George C Thomas.

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After walking 18 holes with Michael charting the course I now do understand why Riviera is considered one of the "Classic" courses in the USA. It had been referred to as "Hogan's Alley" by Jimmy Dermerit after Hogan won Three tournaments within 18 months in the 1940's. It is not overly long but its main defence is it's small fast undulating greens where missing your approach on the short side will mean an automatic bogey.

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Yesterday was travel day for us and after arriving at Riviera today the first stop was the Titleist truck where Michael's grips were changed.
While they were being done which took about 45 minutes he spent time around the chipping green getting used to the condition and kikuyu grass.

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Spent an hour hitting balls on the range working on his Pre Shot Routines and getting ready to play. Went out on course and played with Peter Tomosulo and veteran Jeff Maggert. After the round Michael caught up with his Physio and had a physical check and massage to make sure he is ready for the coming week.

Another practice day tomorrow and he will also do a 1 hour clinic for the Sponsers guest after lunch.

The draw is out and he's off at 6.50am on Thursday and at 11.50 on Friday. On Thursday we will leave for the golf course at 5am to make sure he has ample time to prepare and be ready to tee off at 6.50am.

Looking forward to the week but the weather forcast is for rain nearly every day.

David Milne