Written by M. James Ward
A long-time member of both the GWAA and MGWA. The 68-year-old has covered all facets in golf since 1980 — including reporting on over 100 major championships and 13 Ryder Cup matches. His writings have appeared in various outlets. On a personal level, has played over 2,000 courses globally and is lead reviewer for Top 100 Golf Courses.
Previously served for 17 years as national course rating panelist for Golf Digest. Has also personally competed in USGA Championships. Resides in the metro New York City area with his wife Celeste. Favorite quote paraphrased for golf — “You are what your golf score says you are.”


To Viktor go the spoils
Can Norway’s best golfer hoist Claret Jug for first major at Birkdale?

Summarizing Shinnecock
The magic, moments and misfires at the 126th US Open

Clark “plays big” — goes wire-to-wire for second US Open title
Burns misses key birdie attempts at final two holes

Clark’s play Saturday and Sunday proved pivotal
Why the par-5 16th mattered most?

Scheffler’s sour showing Sunday
Final round failure for world number one.

Clark and Scheffler paired together for final round at Shinnecock Hills
The game plan, possibilities and pathways each face.

Enough is enough — move on
The Oakmont incident. Why it lingers for Wyndham?

The terrific trio at Shinnecock Hills
The genius of William Flynn.

Clark leads five players by four after first two rounds
Scores second consecutive sub-70 round, seeks second US Open win.

McIlroy’s Mindset? Move on to round two
2026 US Open / Day one at Shinnecock Hills.

Eight questions needing answers at Shinnecock
2026 US Open underway

Does proposed solution solve problem or simply cause another to happen?
USGA stands behind rolling back golf ball for all.

“Let Shinnecock be Shinnecock”
USGA touts straightforward game plan for Open.

Long Island’s lasting legacy
2026 US Open / Shinnecock Hills

John Ryan Celiberti interview
As Assistant Director for US Open Championships he oversees critical aspects of Championship planning.

40 and counting!
Looking back on the venues, people and aura from America’s national championship.

The Finicky Golfer – Shinnecock Hills Golf Club
This week the USGA will stage the 126th US Open championship at the storied Shinnecock Hills in New York.

The Finicky Golfer – Driftwood Golf & Ranch Club
Designed by Tom Fazio, situated roughly 30 minutes from the core downtown area of The Lone Star State’s capital city.
