Sam Messina was in Las Vegas last week, and had a chance to meet up with the MGI alum Craig Goleno for an interview and drinks. Here are the excerpts.
CG: “Sam, first of all, thank you for making it out to Las Vegas before this years MGI. Normally TK makes it
out, but due to is consistent back issues, his doctor has limited his flight schedule! Well, how do you feel about your game?”
SM: “Goleno, it is good to be out here, the Palazzo is a fantastic hotel. My game is solid. This is the first time in a few years that I actually feel healthy. If you remember last year, I was all hopped up on Vicodin.”
CG: ”Your game is solid, but your handicap went up 3 strokes since the 2011 MGI and the 2012 MGI. How do you explain this?”
SM: “umm, well, umm, let’s get another drink, my treat!”
CG: “What, if any, equipment changes have you made in anticipation of the 2012 MGI?”
SM: “I have a completely new set from top down. I may only use a few of the new clubs in Miami, but I have all new irons and woods. I have the new Taylor Made R11S, and the new Rocketballz 3 wood that will certainly be in my Miami Bag. That 3 wood goes FAR!”
CG: “Last year you had the R11, do you buy a new set every year?”
SM: “Not a complete set, but certainly a new driver every year.”
CG: “Moving on, have you had a chance to see any of the other Akron guys play recently and if so can you rate their game?”
SM: “Oh yeah, Burt Keiper! He shot a couple of rounds that I witnessed in the mid 80′s, and he was killing the tee shot. He is probably a 10 handicap, not a 16!”
CG: “Really, I didn’t see any of those scores on his recent GHIN update?”
SM: “Exactly, that is why TEAM TK always has a mental advantage. Burt can get hot on the course. You are a streaky player. Lynch a 7 – seriously. JB is JB, and is probably taking lessons as we speak.
CG: “What about Team Mez?”
SM: “Let’s start with Mez…..He probably hasn’t touched his golf clubs in 9 months. He probably still plays those 25 year old DCI irons, and that Sasquatch driver that you can find today on Ebay for $29. Lance is still in trauma from the waxing you gave him. I was there when it happened. Smiley hits it everywhere, but he is a gamer. And then there is Grant with his own suntan lotion, michelob ultras, and 2 dollar bills …. it is tough to tell what game he will show up with in Miami.”
CG: “You don’t seem that confident?”
SM: “umm, well, umm (cackling) … let’s try some wine?”
CG: “Order a couple glasses of the Towbin James Notorious.”
SM: “You got it!”, “Speaking of wine, I have built quite a collection back at home. I also look forward to getting back to that wine shop near the hotel, and picking up some more bottles there. We need to get out by the pool more while the sun is still out!”
CG: “I agree! Thanks for taking the time to answer some golf related questions. Now, let’s enjoy some beverages!”
“Thanks Sammy. Great Time! Thanks for the drinks, especially the Basil Hayden Bourbon!” – Goleno
BK bounced back in 2011 with a 2-1 effort and stellar play. “The heart just beats so fast,” BK said. “It’s an honor to get invited, but then there’s the pressure to perform.”
