OT: 2025 Annual Masters Golf Contest: 10 – 13 April

[Bil522]

Thanks for the kind comments about the running of the contest. It makes it worthwhile when you get the appreciation. I really enjoy doing it and look forward to the PGA next month.

I also can understand that everyone wants to make constructive suggestions about structure. We all enjoy this and want to see a close and competitive tourney go down to the wire.

Interestingly there was a point near the end, about 2 holes to play, when our top 2 and the real top 2 were all on -10. Maybe the format is actually close to spot on after all?

I will adopt some slight differences for each contest. Each major is different and the same should apply here. I reckon we try a draft for the US Open and the PGA will be a qualifier for the order of picks. The Open will need to take into account the time difference and I have ideas for that as well.

I think I have learned for myself that I need to use Darren's style at times as well, "the rules are the rules". I promise to make sure that becomes a catchphrase during tourney weekends I don't fall out with all the suggestions pitched. All good ideas with the right intentions.

But remember this, if you want to introduce complicated algorithms, bonus and penalty points then keep in mind someone ( your foreign friend ) needs to work out a way to execute them into the spreadsheet.

Keep it simple, guys. We will never get it perfect but it's bloody good what we have....

Here is my 2 cents on some tweaks:

- I love the 3 of 5 but to make it really interesting after Saturday, you have to declare who your 3 golfers are before play starts on Sunday. It will be easy if you only get 3 through til Sunday, but what about 4 or even 5? On my squad this weekend, the reason I won was not Bryson, it was Zach Johnson coming from way out Saturday and playing decently on Sunday, and Charl Schwartzel playing par golf after the first day. It was a team effort but what if you had allowed me to change? I think I would have lost.

- I would love to see a 3 round draft for 5 players...1st rd is a single pick...2nd rd is 2 golfers per pick....3rd rd is 2 golfers per pick. I have a Zoom that we can all be on so we can have Draft Day. If someone can't make it, send Mike a private post listing your top 20 golfers. If your 20 are gone then Mike puts down the next golfer available. Because we are drafting, we won't use the price list but I like that as a reference.

- I really thank Mike for doing this...I finally got home after waiting for your flight at SeaTac since February

[D-train]

Exactly Bill. That is why rule changes mid tourney are crazy. You literally would have lost if it wasn't for me pushing back. I think you owe me half of your winnings! lol