M. James Ward

Written by M. James Ward

A long-time member of both the GWAA and MGWA. The 67-year-old has covered all facets in golf since 1980 — including reporting on over 100 major championships and 12 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."
M. James Ward
Xander Schauffele puts his arm around his caddie after winning The 152nd Open at Royal Troon

My side of the bag

To play better, think smarter in 2025

Gullane Golf Club 2nd hole

Grade “A” Architecture – Gullane Golf Club

Within driving distance of Edinburgh, Gullane is well-worth a visit.

Tom Wishon

Tom Wishon interview

Head designer, semi-retired for Wishon Golf, a Division of Diamond Golf International, UK

Bethpage Black will host the 2025 Ryder Cup

Christmas presents come early for USA Ryder Cup members

Bethpage bound – “It’s all about bucks, kid, the rest is conversation.”

Marco Simone Golf and Country Club staged this year's Ryder Cup (Zac Goodwin/PA)

25 questions needing answers in 2025 Pt.3

A new golf year means intriguing possibilities, clear challenges and perilous possible pitfalls.

Jon Rahm

25 questions needing answers in 2025 Pt.2

A new golf year means intriguing possibilities, clear challenges and perilous possible pitfalls.

Royal Portrush

25 questions needing answers in 2025 Pt.1

A new golf year means intriguing possibilities, clear challenges and perilous possible pitfalls

Kate Korngold, Featherie founder

Kate Korngold interview

Founder of Featherie, a performance golf apparel line focused on female teen golfers.

AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am update

Is Golf’s Titanic Looming Ahead?

The coming ball rollback features many implications – will smooth sailing or iceberg filled waters await?

Launcher XL 2

Casey Shultz interview

Senior Product Manager, Cleveland Golf

Looking back up the 10th Fairway to the Tee at St Enodoc

Grade “A” Architecture – St Enodoc Golf Club

The compelling layout provides a scenic panorama.

Black Stone Golf & Resort, Jeju, Korea - Hole #6 North

Brian Costello interview

Principal, JMP Golf Design Group. President, American Society of Golf Course Architects, 2024-2025

Hole #7

Grade “A” Architecture – Reynolds Lake Oconee

The “new” holes on the Richland Course provide a far different presentation than much of the golf found at Reynolds Lake Oconee.

Reynolds Lake Oconee, hole #4

The Finicky Golfer – “Richland” at Reynolds Lake Oconee

The “new” Richland Course is the latest addition to the engaging portfolio, multiple-courses elevating the Georgia-based facility to an even higher profile.

L.A.B. Golf putters - Sam Hahn

Sam Hahn interview

CEO L.A.B. Golf. Lie Angle Balance (L.A.B.) is a patented technology that simplifies putting.

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Angie Jepsen interview

Interim Vice President of Sales, Services & Sports, Visit Albuquerque

Tom Fazio Member Event | 2024

Fabulous Fazio, nearly 80-years-young, still going strong

Revolutionized golf architecture in reaping mega-dollars for clients and creating an array of visually appealing courses captivating players.

Ladera Two Golfers with balls

Golf’s ground floor rising

Municipal golf matters more than ever and one Southwestern USA community provides an engaging program.

Knickerbocker Country Club #6

Grade “A” Architecture – Knickerbocker Country Club

The New Jersey club is in the process of being updated by Jaeger Kovich and superintendent Kyle Hillegass.

Kingdom Instruction with Sean Cain

Q&A with Sean Cain

Director of Operations/ Director of Instruction at The Kingdom at Reynolds Lake Oconee