Greg Norman transcends what is a game into what is life!

I was planning to feature a company in this week's Aukesphere's blog, but then Greg Norman decided to turn us from realists into dreamers...

The most telling quote after the British open was: " If you want something, go get it, chase your dream at any age" and for that I thank Greg. I had the pleasure of interviewing Greg after his final round at the Father and Son tournament in 2007 and came away impressed.

In his earlier days Greg was not very well liked on Tour … he was considered rather aloof and selfish ... but this was 20 years ago! Greg is in the best place of his life, because he is fulfilled in his personal life. His aggressive playing style that used to pulverize golf courses is still embedded in the body of this 53-year young Australian Golf icon. Ask any of the 20-plus Australians on Tour and they will answer en masse ... Greg Norman was their inspiration when they grew up.

On the Fashion front, it was a "regular" cap that topped the graying locks of Norman, due to the constant gale at Royal Birkdale. But with his physique in the best shape of ANY athlete at this tender age obviously the Greg Norman Collection gained tremendous exposure last week.

In the afore mentioned interview Greg mentioned the Greg Norman brand had 22 consecutive growing quarters! Hopefully the brand takes advantage with some congratulatory ads in the Golf media. I for one will get in touch with the PR person Nikki di Gennario and personally extend my congratulations.

Not often it is that a sport in this case Golf enters mainstream conscience ... Greg's story was one that inspired, delighted and instilled hope to chase the dream ... whatever that may be ... for that ... Greg, thank you for the inspiration to millions!

See you on the Senior Tour in March 2011!

Auke

Absence makes the heart ...for the game ... grow fonder

Coming back from a week in Mexico without golf due to rain, it made me realize how the game affects my life. Playing the game gives me not only a creative outlet, but also is such a great way to get to know people. Having enjoyed the culture, people and traditions of Mexico in Tijuana, Mexico City and Cuernavaca, it feels good to be back in the good old US of A. My decision to extend my stay in California is sinking in and in the next eight months I will be reporting from the West Coast.

On the Fashion front LA is a hip place and I am looking forward to play the great courses and reporting on the threads of California. I will also be visiting with some California based companies like adidas and Ashworth. If anyone has any great tips, let me know. I will be in the Thousand Oaks/LA area. I have played Trump National and Lost Canyons and will be playing Bel-Air Country Club soon.

On Tour it looks like Anthony Kim will be a spirited addition to the Ryder Cup team. His belt buckle is certainly getting the attention from the Fashion cognoscenti … belt buckles on both Tours are making a splash … Rocco Mediate, Annika Sorenstam, Suzann Pettersen and Lorena Ochoa are all sporting very cool buckles custom made per their instructions.

Starting next week I will be doing in-depth features on various Fashion companies.
Stay tuned and remember … the player that is dressed to kill always has the advantage … and always will.

JOIN THE CLUB: Better Golf for Women

I had the distinct privilege to appear in a fashion segment on the PGA Web site. Each week they do a spot called Better Golf for Women presented by Kohler and this week's feature is on fashion. Check it out on the PGA Web site. It's under the Join the Club section.
Join the Club
Your golf game can vary from time to time, but you can always look good on the course.

Remember, a well-dressed golfer always has an advantage and always will ... when they are dressed to kill.

Auke

Traveling again

I am currently in one of the most populated cities in the world, Mexico City. In fact it is the 8th most populated city in the world. I can't wait to share my experiences with you upon my return.

Always fashionable

Auke