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.”
Behind the Architectural Curtain – Royal Troon Golf Club
152nd Open Championship
The Lore of the Links
M. James Ward outlines the roots of the game and how The Open is the critical connector to past, present and future.
How Arnie’s arrival prompted The Open’s return?
M. James Ward assesses how Palmer’s record setting win at Troon in 1962 set in motion the ascension of golf’s oldest major event.
Proper postage preferred
M. James Ward reviews the tantalizing terror of Troon’s famous short hole and the pressures facing those competing to capture the famed Claret Jug.
Can Clark Kent become Superman at Bethpage?
M. James Ward examines the new USA Ryder Cup captain and what lies ahead for Keegan Bradley.
Barclay Douglas, Jr. interview
President, Newport Country Club, host of this week’s US Senior Open
Four holes to watch – 2024 US Senior Open
M. James Ward outlines the key holes that will play a pivotal role in determining this year’s winner at Newport.
The Travelers: Golf’s go to event
M. James Ward outlines the rise of Connecticut’s PGA Tour event and how a strict attention to details has proven to be a bonanza for…
Grade “A” Architecture – Fields Ranch at PGA Frisco West #5
M. James Ward examines the new facility in Texas that will have plenty of eyes watching in the near future.
Bryson’s renaissance at Pinehurst
M. James Ward outlines how the “new” DeChambeau is a fan favorite and how his stirring final par to edge out Rory McIlroy is just…
Major McIlroy meltdown
M. James Ward outlines how Rory’s story just got more complicated and if the talented player can recover from the Pinehurst implosion.
Is Bryson bound? 2nd US Open in reach
M. James Ward examines the remarkable turnaround from previous enigma to fan favorite now with a win at Pinehurst firmly in sight.
Fear factor flourishing at Pinehurst No.2
M. James Ward outlines how precision has returned to this year’s US Open and how mental anguish will impact the contenders this weekend.
Memo to Tiger – There is no tomorrow
M. James Ward outlines the reality of what Woods faces and the tight rope he walks between being hopeful and hopeless.
Ludvig lurking
M. James Ward assesses the emergence of golf’s next generation and whether a Swede can win the grand prize this week at Pinehurst.
Can “Paddy Ice” heat up at US Open?
M. James Ward assesses the underachievement to date of Patrick Cantlay in the major championships.
Lasting lessons learned
M. James Ward assesses how the USGA has adjusted from past fumbles into getting host sites prepared smartly for a US Open host role.
Will big four continue solid play at Pinehurst?
M. James Ward outlines the consistency of Scheffler, Schauffele, Morikawa and DeChambeau and whether the foursome will materialize again down the stretch at this year’s…
The rise, fall and return – Pinehurst’s pageantry Pt.1
M. James Ward reviews the next chapter in the development of America’s golf mecca with the staging of the 124th US Open this week.
The rise, fall and return – Pinehurst’s pageantry Pt.2
M. James Ward reviews the next chapter in the development of America’s golf mecca with the staging of the 124th US Open this week.