Meeting in Style at Pebble Beach

When the conversation takes us to the most special places in Golf, Pebble Beach is always a participant. I was fortunate enough to visit last week for a meeting with Steve Cohen, the founder of The Shivas Irons Society www.shivas.org and Scott Clark, the producer of The Nature of the Game www.thenatureofthegame.com movie.

When entering the gates to 17 mile drive and getting the first glimpse of revered Pebble it is like a look at a fine piece of art ... mesmerizing. Walking up to the lodge for my meeting in the Tap room, three splendidly attired staff members in tam o'shanters greeted me warmly, like a time gone by. The Tap room is a wonderful tribute to the rich history of Pebble Beach with fantastic photographs chronicling the so many golf shots embedded in the lore of Pebble.

After our meeting I meandered the grounds taking in the pro shop with collections of all the big names in the game and the already functional US Open 2010 shop. What impressed me most was the historical reference to the Bing Crosby Clambake - a tournament so rich in golf and celebrity history - with plaques and photographs.

My last few minutes I spent on the veranda overlooking the 18th hole with a glass of Pinot Grigio... taking in the sounds and sights of the spectacular scenery where the Pacific Ocean and nature collaborated on what many people have called the most beautiful place God created to play the glorious game of golf.

I ended the day with eleven holes of golf at Poppy Hills, totally unprepared in dress shoes, dress shirt and gloveless playing with Scott Clark's clubs and carrying Steve Cohen's bag. A spontaneous game with great company at a gem of a course.

May all of us be as fortunate to at least once visit this wonderful testament of virtuosic golf course design, hospitality hearkening back to a different time and a Style that reminds us, that there is a place on our planet that truly inspires.... Pebble Beach!