David DeSmith

2 weeks ago | northeast.golf | David DeSmith

COMO Laucala IslandWhen you touch down on the airstrip at Fiji’s COMO Laucala Island, and the propellers of the resort’s private King Air B300 twin turboprop circle to a stop, you deplane to be greeted by smiling resort staff members gathered under the palms to sing Bula Maleya, the traditional Fijian song of welcome.

3 weeks ago | linksmagazine.com | David DeSmith

Merton Laverne "Verne" Lundquist Jr. was born the son of a Lutheran pastor in 1940 in Duluth, Minn. He began his broadcasting career as a sports anchorman on an Austin, Texas, TV station, and later became the radio voice of the Dallas Cowboys-a job he held until 1984. Sports fans have heard Lundquist's trademark baritone voice and poignant commentary on broadcasts of just about every sport you can name-including golf.

3 weeks ago | linksmagazine.com | David DeSmith

Par-three holes don't have to be long to play tough. Just look at the blood that was shed in the 2024 Open Championship at Royal Troon's celebrated 8th hole, the Postage Stamp, where 123 yards and a necklace of deep pot bunkers were all that was needed to make the world's top players dial 911. Or the annual drama at Golden Bell, the 12th hole at Augusta National, which only stretches to 155 yards but has drowned the dreams of many a Green Jacket hopeful in Rae's Creek.

1 month ago | linksmagazine.com | David DeSmith

Your putter gets used more than any other club in your bag, and its ability to help you save pars-or make birdies-will often make or break your round. Some players have tried-and-true flat sticks that have been with them for years, trusted friends they know they can rely on under pressure. Other players buy new putters as often as they change gloves, searching for that magic wand that will give them confidence over testy five-footers.

1 month ago | linksmagazine.com | David DeSmith

The other country on the Iberian Peninsula is finally getting the respect it deserves for its culture, cuisine, comforts-and great golfFor a long time, Portugal was the Rodney Dangerfield of Western European countries. While its larger neighbors drew visitors by the millions to their signature attractions, Portugal was mainly known as the home of port wine.