American Century Championship @ Tahoe Celebrity Golf Week

Wagner Edges Romo for Win at American Century Championship

2011-07-17T16:33:00.000-07:00

South Shore, Lake Tahoe, Nev. – Actor Jack Wagner birdied the par-3 17th hole and survived a bogey on the final hole for a 3-point win over Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo at the American Century Championship. Wagner outscored Romo, 80-77, to become the fourth multiple winner in the event’s 22-year history. The event used a Stableford scoring system where points were awarded for pars or better.

The 51-year-old Wagner, who also won in 2006, led after each of the three rounds. He made 18 birdies over the 54 holes at the 6,865-yard Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course. Wagner shot 69 with seven birdies (worth 3 points apiece) and four bogeys Sunday. Romo shot a bogey-free 66, and his 31 points were a single-round best for the week.

Chris Chandler and Jeremy Roenick finished tied for third, with 66 points. Eight-time champion Rick Rhoden was fifth with 61 points.

“I just won this golf tournament.” said Wagner “I shot 9 or 10 under par (54-hole total) and won… Back then (2006), it felt more like I held on. Today, the difference was that someone was pushing me to be better.”

Wagner held a 10-point lead through eight holes, but Romo rallied with an eagle 2 on the 315-yard 11th hole to cut the lead to 6 points. Romo moved even closer, 75-73, after a par on the 14th.

Wagner missed a golden opportunity to pull away on the par-5 16th, but missed his 6-foot birdie attempt to the left. But the Emmy-nominated actor regrouped on the next tee and hit his 8-iron approach to 12 feet and made the putt, giving himself a nearly insurmountable 4-point lead heading to the last hole. Romo gained a meaningless point there with a par, but lost any chance of catching Wagner when his 8-iron second shot found the pond to the left of the green.

“I needed to be aggressive there,” said Romo after his long 336-yard drive left him just 165 yards out. “I knew I needed to make eagle to have any chance. It’s disappointing just from the aspect of wanting to win and compete out there. But, you know, Jack deserves all the credit here. He played a great round of golf.”

Wagner, who has played in every Tahoe celebrity event, took home $125,000 for his win. Joe Sakic, a retired hockey star, took home $500,000 for his hole-in-one on the 167-yard 17th hole Sunday, using an 8-iron for his first-ever ace.

Wagner has won his Bel-Air Country Club championship six times and has been runner-up at the Los Angeles club 12 times. He is best known for his acting roles on General Hospital and Melrose Place.

By Craig Smith, former director of media relations for the U.S. Golf Association.

Sakic Earns $1 Million for Hole-in-One at American Century Championship

2011-07-17T14:26:00.001-07:00

Sunday July 17th, 2011

South Shore, Lake Tahoe, Nev. – Joe Sakic took up the game of golf when he signed his first hockey contract in 1988, but he waited until he was on the big stage at the American Century Champions to make his first hole-in-one.

The 42-year-old Sakic used an 8-iron to ace the 167-yard 17th lakeside hole Sunday and earn the $1 million prize presented by American Century Investments. Half of the money will be donated to the LIVEStrong Foundation, the designated charity of the tournament. The other $500,000 belongs to Sakic, the retired 20-year All-Star center for the Colorado Avalanche.

“I’ve never had a hole-in-one. In fact, I’ve never been close,” said Sakic, who sports a 2 handicap. “Trent (Dilfer) told me it went in, but I didn’t believe him at first. I never imagined this. This is just great. I feel very fortunate to come to this tournament. For three days everyone here makes us feel like pros.”

Sakic gained 8 points for his ace in the modified Stableford format and finished with 50 points for the 54-hole event. It was the fourth ace in the tournament’s 22-year history. Others were made by Rudy Gatlin (1995), Dan Jansen (1999) and Marshall Faulk (2009). Faulk’s was the only other ace on the 17th hole, and he covered the 170-yard shot with a 9-iron.

Sakic played in 13 NHL All-Star games and his teams won two Stanley Cups (1996 and 2001). He served as team captain for 17 consecutive seasons. Among his many awards was the Hart Memorial Trophy for being league MVP in 2001.

By Craig Smith, former director of media relations for the U.S. Golf Association.

In Football and Golf, Linebacker A.J. Hawk is a Hard Hitter

2011-07-17T12:03:00.000-07:00

Sunday, July 17, 2011

South Shore, Lake Tahoe, Nev. – A.J. Hawk turned his baseball cap backwards and grabbed a handful of practice balls as he strolled off to begin his third round at the American Century Championship.

“I’m getting pretty low,” said the muscular Green Bay Packer middle linebacker to a few of the other sports celebrities standing nearby. “Hopefully, I’ll bring them back later.”

He grabbed his driver on the 425-yard first hole while the other players in the his group --quarterbacks Tim Tebow and Matt Schaub -- went with long irons, just hoping to find the fairway on the dogleg right.

“They’re smart. That’s why they’re quarterbacks,” joked the 6’1”, 247-pounder before he blasted his drive over the tall pine trees guarding the right side of the fairway, leaving himself just a 130-yard approach that led to a par.

“I just hit it as hard as I can. I try not to think too much,” said the self-deprecating big man who plays with just one wood (a 10-degree driver) in his bag. “I have issues when I start thinking out there. I just like seeing how far I can hit it. I don’t mess with my clubs, and I don’t practice. I just like to play.”

The only thing that Hawk hits harder than a running back might be a golf ball. The Packers knew he was a hitter when they selected him as the fifth overall pick in the 2006 draft coming out of Ohio State, where he won the Lombardi Award as the best interior college lineman.

“I try to use my legs, just like in football,” said the 27-year-old Hawk after another 330-yard drive. “I try to turn my body. People think that because I’m a football player, I can’t turn. But I’ve seen some big old fat dudes who can turn and hit it pretty far.”

Earlier in the week, Hawk won the long-drive contest among the 80 celebrities for the second time in three years. His blast of 337 yards was 15 yards farther than his winning poke from 2009. It was so far that it hit the NBC camera tower at the back end of the practice range.

He had three birdies on Thursday, with his last coming on the 315-yard 11th hole when he drove it to the collar of the green. But he didn’t make any birdies over the last 43 holes of the competition at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course.

Still, he never got frustrated. And he enjoyed the off-season banter with the opposing NFL quarterbacks.

“I can talk to these guys anytime (Tebow and Schaub), but just not so much on game days,” quipped Hawk, the defensive signal caller for the Packers. “I don’t trash talk during games. I’d sound like an idiot. Besides, I have too much to say in the huddle.”

Hawk is heading into his sixth NFL season as a starter after being instrumental in the recent Packers Super Bowl win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. He hasn’t missed even one game due to injury, and he’s has been among the team’s top two tacklers in 2009 and 2010. This past season, Hawk had a team-leading 111 tackles.

Clearly, he’s a hitter on and off the golf course.

By Craig Smith, former director of media relations for the U.S. Golf Association.

Wagner Leads Romo by 6 at American Century Championship

2011-07-16T16:50:00.000-07:00

Saturday, July 16, 2011

South Shore, Lake Tahoe, Nev. – Daytime actor Jack Wagner scored 23 points Saturday, giving him a total of 52 points and a 6-point lead over Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo after two rounds of the American Century Championship. The 54-hole celebrity event uses a Stableford scoring system that awards graduated points for pars or better.

It’s the first time that Wagner remembers holding the 36-hole lead at the celebrity event, even though he was the winner in 2006 and finished tied for second last year.

Romo, meanwhile, made up ground to finish with 46 points after seven birdies over the 6,865-yard Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course. Former winner Chris Chandler heads into Sunday’s final round with 42 points; actor Oliver Hudson has 41, and Vinny DelNegro, John Smotz and Jeremy Roenick have 40.

Romo has tried to qualify for the U.S. Open the last couple years. Wagner has made his mark on the golf course as a six-time club champ at Bel-Air Country Club (Calif.).

“I didn’t get the par 5s, but to get 1 under on a day when I was probably going a little sideways, I’m kind of happy with that,” said Wagner. “I got it in the house and I’m still in the lead… (My caddie) David Berganio (former U.S. Amateur Public Links champion) keeps saying, ‘Take it man. Let’s go! Put the petal to the metal, dude.’ But I’m an actor, I don’t know ‘petal to the metal.’”

Playing in the group in front of Wagner, Romo closed to within 3 points before Wagner birdied the final hole. And he feels good about his chances of catching Wagner.

“The way I’m hitting it, I think I can put up a number tomorrow,” said Romo, who will not accept any prize money in the $600,000 purse in order to retain his amateur status. “I hit the target a lot today, and I like my chances. Whenever I show up to play, I don’t show up to finish second or third.”

By Craig Smith, former director of media relations for the U.S. Golf Association.

Barkley Finds Someone He Can Beat at American Century Championship.

2011-07-16T13:45:00.000-07:00

Saturday, July 16, 2011

South Shore, Lake Tahoe, Nev. – Golf instructor Hank Haney had his hands full on Saturday trying to help Charles Barkley and Jimmer Fredette at the same time during the second round of the American Century Championship. The two worst golfers in the celebrity field were paired together for their adventure at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course, and Barkley was swinging at the ball with his eyes closed.

“I’m trying to trick myself,” admitted Barkley, who hit some wonderful tee shots with his eyes closed on the practice range before his round.

Barkley’s struggles with the game of golf have been well documented, and the pronounced hitch in his downswing is as imitated among recreational golfers as Tiger Woods’ fist pump. Barkley’s attempt to improve was the subject of Golf Channel’s “Hank Haney Project.”

Well, Haney may have another “project.” Barkley might just be better than Fredette, who struggled with his chip shots from 50 yards-and-in. Barkley has more trouble off the tee.

“It’s a dream come true to play with Charles,” said a smiling Fredette, the sharp-shooting BYU graduate who was recently acquired by the Sacramento Kings of the NBA. “I loved watching him play. He played so hard and had such determination.”

Fredette’s best hole on Saturday was a bogey on the par-3 12^th. He stopped his 5-iron approach 10 feet above the hole, but three-putted to tie Barkley, who one-putted after a chip from across the cart path and through a stand of pine trees.

“You don’t have no short game like mine, so don’t be trying any of those shots,” Barkley heckled Fredette after leaving himself a 5-footer for bogey.

Two holes later Barkley lined up, closed his eyes, and launched his tee ball 310 yards to the right rough, leaving him just 90 yards to the green. It was good enough for his second of three bogeys on his first nine holes.

“It takes a special athlete to hit a golf ball with his eyes closed,” Barkley joked to his new friend Jimmer.

By Craig Smith, former director of media relations for the U.S. Golf Association.

Wagner Holds First-Day Lead at American Century Championship

2011-07-15T21:29:00.000-07:00

Friday, July 15, 2011

South Shore, Lake Tahoe, Nev. – Actor Jack Wagner made seven birdies and scored 29 points Friday to hold a 5-point lead over Jeremy Roenick and Chris Chandler after the first round of the American Century Championship. The 54-hole celebrity event uses a Stableford scoring system that awards graduated points for pars or better.

Wagner, the 2006 winner who has played in all 21 previous Tahoe celebrity events, shot a 3-under-par 69 over 6,865-yard Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course. But he didn’t want to get ahead of himself and think about better his second-place finish of a year ago.

“It’s only the first day,” said Wagner. “When you shoot under par, everything is going pretty good for you. And when you make a few putts early, it can really build your confidence for the whole day. I birdied the first two holes from 15 and 20 feet today.”

Roenick, a former NHL All-Star, had two birdies and an eagle on his final nine holes to help boost his total while Chandler, a retired NFL quarterback and the 2007 winner, was a quick starter like Wagner, with four birdies on his first nine holes.

“This is my favorite week of the year,” said the nine-time All-Star center Roenick after the round. “I worked hard to stay mentally strong today. I could have lost it a couple of times, but I hung in there. I grew today as a golfer and as a person. This is as hard as I can remember this course playing.”

Defending champion Billy Joe Tolliver had just 14 points, and pre-tournament favorite Tony Romo birdied two of his final three holes to finish with 19.

“I putted just terrible today,” said Romo, who was paired with Michael Jordan and John Elway. “But, hopefully I was able to get back into it with the last couple holes.”

Crowd favorite Charles Barkley and rookie Jimmer Fredette were among the low finishers with minus 30 points.

By Craig Smith, former director of media relations for the U.S. Golf Association.

Holtz’s Final Rounds at the American Century Championship

2011-07-15T16:29:00.000-07:00

Friday, July 15, 2011

South Shore, Lake Tahoe, Nev. – Lou Holtz let ESPN talk him into being a college football analyst for two more years, but the fit-looking 74-year-old was sure that this would be his last visit to the American Century Championship.

“There comes a time when you have to step aside,” said the affable retired coach before he headed to the first tee to begin play on Friday. “I can’t reach most of the fairways any more. But from 100 yards and in I’m still okay. They need to let us old guys move up so we can be competitive.”

Holtz’s game showed signs of a former brilliance, but from more than 6,800 yards at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course, he was playing double-bogey golf most of the day. He once was an 8-handicapper, and as recently as 2005 he won the member-member tournament at Augusta National Golf Club.

Holtz shared the round with another College Football Hall-of-Famer, Steve Spurrier, the man who succeeded him in 2005 as head coach at the University of South Carolina, and Jack Del Rio, the current head coach of the NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars. Between them, they have 67 years of head coaching experience. But the 48-year-old Del Rio was the baby of the group, with just eight years as a head coach at his current post.

“I’m just listening and taking in the wisdom,” the long-hitting and erratic Del Rio said at one point. The group alternated between talking football and listening to Holtz’s quick-witted one-liners.

After an up-and-down stretch of birdie, triple bogey and then a perfect 300-yard drive for Del Rio, Holtz quipped, “I don’t want to hear you getting on your players for being inconsistent.”

On another occasion, Holtz hit his second shot on a par-4 hole and said, “There, now I’m out there with your drives.”

After Sunday’s final round in the 54-hole event, Holtz will get ready for another college football season alongside his colleague Mark May and share his wisdom as “Doctor Lou.” And he may just have more insight into the upcoming season for South Carolina, which has the “Old Ball Coach” pretty excited.

By Craig Smith, former director of media relations for the U.S. Golf Association.

Tebow and Elway So Close and Yet So Far Apart

2011-07-14T17:53:00.000-07:00

Thursday, July 14, 2011

South Shore, Lake Tahoe, Nev. – Tim Tebow has always done things his own way, but tackling the Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course for the start of the American Century Championship without much practice and having never had a golf lesson might be more than even he can overcome.

“I get my money’s worth out of every swing,” said the Denver Bronco quarterback after taking a mighty rip at his drive from the 16^th tee. “I’m not an expert at this, and if I break 90 each day out here I’ll be happy.”

But while quarterbacks like Tony Romo, Billy Joe Tolliver and John Elway have perennially been among the favorites to win the 54-hole Stableford event that is in its 22^nd year, Tebow reluctantly has accepted his fate long before play begins.

“It’s hard to accept that I don’t have a chance before I get started,” said Tebow. “I’m competitive and I’ll try my hardest, but I don’t practice and I don’t take lessons. I really just enjoy going out and betting against my brother (Robby). Some day, I’ll find time to practice and get good at this game.”

But for the foreseeable future, Tebow is concentrating on his football career and winning a starting job as the Broncos quarterback. His boss, John Elway, the executive vice president of football operations for the Broncos, would expect nothing less of his 2010 first-round draft pick.

“I hope people don’t get the wrong impression seeing me here,” said the 23-year old Tebow who started three games in his rookie season. “I’m very proud of the work that I’ve put in during this off season and I’m looking for a chance to compete and handle our offense.”

Meanwhile, Elway has had the time to practice his golf game, and it shows. He finished in a four-way tie for second place last year. And he regularly is around par for 18 holes.

“I think I’m still getting better,” said the 51-year-old Hall-of-Famer who is one of four golfers who has played in every Tahoe celebrity golf championship. “I really enjoy this week. It’s chance to see everyone again and it gives me a chance to compete. We never seem to lose that.”

Elway also was looking forward to sharing pleasantries with his sophomore quarterback on this practice day, knowing that Tebow was playing three groups in front of his. But the two will not be allowed to talk business due to the ongoing player lockout.

“I sure don’t want to get on his bad side and I don’t think I’ll be in trouble if I just say ‘hey,’” said the former Heisman Trophy winner, not fully knowing the league-imposed rules during the lockout.

Elway chuckled at the craziness of the situation. “We can’t talk shop, but I’ll be able to say, ‘Hey, how are you? How’s the family?’”

The two will not be paired together during the three rounds of play in order to respect the league rules. But each hopes they will be together in Denver for football practices before the month is over.

Playing a round of golf together can wait.

By Craig Smith, former director of media relations for the U.S. Golf Association.

NBC Golf Executives Mix Business with Pleasure in Tahoe

2011-07-13T15:33:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, July 13, 201

South Shore, Lake Tahoe, Nev. – Michael Jordan and Tony Romo had never met before the American Century Championship four years ago. It was golf that brought them together.

Now they were walking down the 11^th fairway during Wednesday’s practice round talking about golf equipment and what Jordan might try to get a bit more lift on his drives without losing distance.

If any celebrity out here might know, it’s Romo, a scratch amateur golfer and the Dallas Cowboys quarterback who finished his practice round at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course with a 2-under-par 70. The ever-competitive Jordan wasn’t far behind.

“He’s got youth on his side,” quipped Jordan on the third tee when the 31-year-old Romo launched his drive far down the fairway and had only a 5-iron into the 570-yard par 5.

And it was Romo, who teamed with NBC executive Jon Miller and announcer Mark Rolfing to win the friendly game among the five. Jordan and lead producer Tom Randolph dug into their pockets to settle the bet.

The friendly game has been a ritual among Jordan, Romo and the NBC group each year since 2007 at the American Century Championship, largely as a way to celebrate the success of the event which grew out of misfortune for the network more than 20 years ago.

“It was 1989. We had just lost major league baseball and (president) Dick Ebersol called me in his office,” recalled Miller, now president of programming for NBC Sports and the Versus network. ‘You’re the programming guy. We just lost baseball and you now have 26 weeks to fill. But you have no money to spend.”

The network was open to many new ventures in sports to fill the void. One of the ideas was a celebrity golf tournament.

“Let’s give it a shot,” Miller thought. “This event was the first and most successful of those ventures. But we knew we needed the biggest star of that time to make it go, and that was Michael.”

He said yes, and so a good friendship was born.

Randolph recalls the time he first asked Jordan what they were going to play for. “Anything that makes you nervous,” said the NBA great.

“I look forward to this. It’s one of the best weeks of the year,” said Jordan. And it’s always special when he gets to trade jabs with his buddy Rolfing.

“Michael could play 1000 rounds of golf, but there is nobody he likes taking money from more than me,” said Rolfing, who came alive on the closing holes Wednesday to win his individual wager with Jordan.

“He got away clear,” chuckled Jordan, who started off with birdies on two of the first three holes.

Romo, meanwhile, walked away from the day knowing he was prepared for the rest of the golf week before he turned his attention (hopefully) to another football season. Talks are continuing between team owners and players to end a player lockout.

“I like my chances,” said the three-time Pro Bowl selection.

So does Jordan.

By Craig Smith, former director of media relations for the U.S. Golf Association.

It's Show Time!

2011-07-12T12:15:00.000-07:00

The 22nd annual American Century Championship is underway. The event kicked off this year with the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority Celeb Am tournament. Players and celebs were treated to picture perfect weather this morning for the 9 am shot gun. Former NFL All Pro QB's Jim McMahon and Mark Rypien along with former MLB Greats John Smoltz, Joe Carter and Goose Gossage were among the celebrities playing in todays tournament.

Super Bowl MVP QB, Aaron Rodgers, made his appearance this morning and signed a few autographs for fans. NBA Legend Michael Jordan just arrived and will be playing his practice round later this afternoon. The official tournament starts on Friday but the days leading up to this weekend are a great chance to get up close and personnel with your favorite celebs.

Less than 3 Months till 2011 Tee Times

2011-04-24T11:33:00.000-07:00

It's Easter Sunday - and Heavenly's chair lifts are closing down for the season. Not sure about your back yard - but it's been a looong winter here at Lake Tahoe. Excellent for winter sports and water run off from the Sierras to the fertile valleys of Central California. But now - it's time to think about warm temps and fun in the sun. Now it's time for world class pro bicycle races - and golf. Right now, the whole Tahoe Basin is pumped up about the forthcoming AMGEN Tour of California. The biggest bike race in the USA kicks off its 800 mile trek right here at South Lake Tahoe on May 15th. Check it out at TahoeSouth.com

The 23rd annual Tahoe Celebrity Golf Week starts on Tuesday, July 12th. This year's American Century Championship promises to be the biggest most exciting tournament ever. So plan your trip to the Super Bowl of Celebrity Sports at Edgewood Tahoe now. For information on online ticket sales go to TahoeCelebrityGolf.com/tickets.html

Reigning tournament champion - the personable Billy Joe Tolliver, returns to defend his title. Could a two-peat be in the works? BJ did set a new score record last year. But as in 2010 - the "Packetizer" will have the likes of Tony Romo, Jack Wagner, John Smoltz and Big John Elway breathing down his neck. Not to mention the serious threats from multi year winners Rick Rhoden and Dan Quinn.

NBA greats Michael Jordan and Charles Barkley are returning to Tahoe. And, you'll have the chance to welcome at least a Bakers Dozen brand new Celebrity Players to the American Century Championship - including the 2011 College Basketball Player of the Year - Jimmer Fredette. For the latest Official Celebrity Players List go to TahoeCelebrityGolf.com/playerlist.html

For many Celebrity Players and Gallery Spectators - Tahoe Celebrity Golf Week is the social event of the summer. So this year we're planning some very exciting surprises for everyone on our Facebook and Twitter pages. Log on, load up and stay with us at Twitter.com/#!/ACChampionship and Facebook.com/LTCelebrityGolf (We assume Heather is still "Jack's Girl" but she might be shooting her own project this summer. Look for a Tweet later)

Check back here with us in May and we'll be posting tons of new info - including details on our Tournament Point & Shoot Photo Contest.

Tolliver Claims His Third Celebrity Event Crown at Lake Tahoe

2010-07-18T15:52:00.000-07:00

Billy Joe Tolliver, a former professional quarterback, was never challenged Sunday and claimed his third title at the American Century Championship at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course. Tolliver scored 26 points in the final round and finished with a record total 84 points, 19 points ahead of actor Jack Wagner and athletes John Elway, Tony Romo and John Smoltz, who were in a four-way tie for second place with 65 points.

The event uses a Stableford scoring format; with 6 points awarded for an eagle, 3 for a birdie and 1 for a par.

Tolliver, who also won the event in 1996 and 2005, was the 36-hole leader at 58 points, 11 points ahead of Wagner. But it was Elway who got the closest to Tolliver on Sunday, pulling to within 70-61 (9 points) after the first nine holes. But, no one got closer.

“My goal was to get to 25 points every day,” said Tolliver, who won $125,000 for the win. “I knew if I shot a 68 or so, it would be hard for someone to catch me. I didn’t miss anything inside 4 feet for three days.”

For the record, Tolliver shot a 69 and only made one bogey, at the 7^th hole. His best hole of the day was his last, where the long-hitting Tolliver boomed a 373-yard drive to leave just a sand wedge to the 501-yard par 5. His approach stopped four feet away and he made the eagle putt.

“After I missed my birdie putt on the third hole, I knew I was kind of playing for second place,” said Wagner, who was paired with Tolliver.

“He wasn’t going to back up with as well as he was playing,” said Elway, who slipped out of solo second with a double bogey on the final hole. “I kidded Tony (Romo) that if we made a couple double eagles down the stretch, we might have a chance.”

The American Century Championship has been held at Edgewood Tahoe for 21 years, and it is the longest running celebrity event in golf. The event set an attendance record of 37,550 for the three days.

Tolliver Takes Second-Round Lead at American Century Championship

2010-07-17T16:16:00.000-07:00

Lake Tahoe, Nev. -- Two-time winner Billy Joe Tolliver, a former NFL quarterback, made six birdies and an eagle on his way to scoring a record 33 points Saturday. Tolliver took an 11-point lead over actor Jack Wagner after two rounds of the American Century Championship at the Edgewater Tahoe Golf Course. The event uses a Stableford scoring system, with 6 points for each eagle, 3 for each birdie and a point for each par.

The long-hitting Tolliver overtook the first-round leaders with three birdies over the first four holes. His stroke play score was a 6-under-par 66.

“I’m trying to score 25 points every day,” said Tolliver, who won the celebrity event in 1996 and 2005. “If I get that Sunday, someone will have to do something ridiculous to catch me. But nothing is safe out here. I know I can’t shoot bogey-free, so if I don’t make a couple birdies, people can still catch me. I have to take advantage of the birdie holes again tomorrow.”

Wagner, who shared the first-round lead with former NHL player Jeremy Roenick, birdied the last hole to finish with 21 points Saturday and a 47-point total.

“If I can get 33 points, a lot of these guys out here can get 33 points,” said Tollilver. “The difference today for me was that I made the putts and Jack (Wagner) just missed by the slightest bit. I also got all the par 5s.”

Dan Quinn, another former hockey player, is in third place with 46 points, and Hall-of-Fame quarterback John Elway was another point back with 45 points.

“If I can’t catch him, it’s okay with me if we keep the winner in the quarterback fraternity,” said Elway.

Defending champion Rick Rhoden is well back with 35 points. Crowd favorite Charles Barkley is in last place with -59 points.

Jared Allen Combines Knickers and Sandals for a Special Look

2010-07-17T13:27:00.000-07:00

Jared Allen is an All-Pro defensive end for the Minnesota Vikings who makes his living throwing quarterbacks to the ground. So, he was having a hard time keeping his hands off the more than a dozen current and former professional quarterbacks who are playing in the American Century Championship this weekend.

“Those Prima Donnas,” said Allen laughing during his lackluster second round.

“I had it in red (positive) numbers for a second or two yesterday,” said Allen, who daringly wore a pair of red and while plaid knickers with high white stockings and flip-flops for golf shoes on Friday. Okay, take a few seconds to picture that look!

His caddie and friend said he turned to the sandals after losing too many pairs of golf shoes along the way. It looks kind of funny, no doubt. Saturday, he wore white khakis while the only pair of knickers he had were being cleaned.

“I think this is the first time I’ve ever worn long pants on a golf course,” said Allen.

Allen’s self-deprecating fashion style is a hoot, but no one dared laugh at the big man. His golf game is something to laugh at, at times, however; although he did birdie the short par-4 10^th on Saturday.

“I’m just trying to preserve what little dignity I have left out here,” he told the rest of his group – Marcus Allen and Ray Allen -- as they teed off on the 11^th hole.

By Craig Smith, former director of media relations for the U.S. Golf Association.

Charles Barkley a Fan Favorite in Every Way

2010-07-17T09:06:00.001-07:00

The best bet in Nevada this weekend might be betting against Charles Barkley making a birdie at the American Century Championship.

In Friday’s first round of the 54-hole event that is using a Stableford scoring system, Barkley made just two pars and had the worst score of the 84 celebrities in the field. The leaders pointed 26 first-round points; Barkley was going the other way at minus 28.

Things got even more interesting than usual when he came to the par-3 seventh hole.

A fan challenged him to hit the green on a $50 wager.

“What am I going to do with $50,” quipped the always entertaining Barkley.

“Okay, $200,” said the fan, knowing a solid wager when he saw it.

Predictably, Barkley missed the green and dropped two one-hundred dollar bills on the tee box for the lucky fan as he walked off toward the green to make a double bogey 5.

by Craig Smith, former director of media relations at the U.S. Golf Association.

First Round is in the books!

2010-07-16T16:22:00.000-07:00

After a brief delay due to a thunderstorm, the first round of the American Century Championship is in the books! 2 time Celebrity Champion, Billy Joe Tolliver held the early lead in the clubhouse with a 2 under par round of 70 scoring a total of 25 points for the day. Tolliver carded 5 birdies in his round each worth 3 points in this stableford scoring system. The lead was then given up to 2006 Celebrity Champion, Actor Jack Wagner and former NHL Star, Jeremy Reonick. Both Wagner and Roenick scored 26 points both posting rounds of 69.

Surprise round of the day was turned in by former MLB Pitcher and tournament rookie, Mark Mulder. Mulder also fired a 3 under par round of 69, but scored only 24 points leaving him tied for fourth with former NFL QB Vinny Testaverde. Testaverde eagled the par 4 second hole earning him an extra 6 points for the day.

The usual suspects of Rick Rhoden, Dan Quinn and Tony Romo are not far behind the leaders. Quinn is just a birdie behind and Rhoden and Romo are just an eagle behind.

Geoff Burke

Tahoecelebritygolf.com

2010-07-15T15:59:00.000-07:00

Friday’s Marquis Pairing is Jordan, Romo and Allen

If you are looking for a “happening” on Friday in Lake Tahoe, Nev., you can join the crowd on the first tee with the marquis celebrity grouping of Michael Jordan, Tony Romo and Ray Allen.

The three superstars will tee it up at 10:10 a.m. (PDT) in the first round of the 54-hole American Century Championship at the Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course. Stableford scoring will be used for the tournament, with increasingly more points awarded for better holes. Rick Rhoden, a former MLB pitcher, is the two-time defending champion.

Jordan led the Chicago Bulls to six NBA titles on his way to becoming one of the most recognizable sports figures of all-time. Romo climbed into the starting quarterback role with the Dallas Cowboysthree years ago and threw for six 300-yard games last season while leading his team to the NFC East Division title. And Allen is a career 20-point scorer and nine-time All-Star who led the Boston Celtics to an NBA title in 2008 and the NBA Finals in 2010.

But, who is the best golfer of the three. Tony Romo.

By Craig Smith, former director of media relations for the U.S. Golf Association

Golfer By Day, Rascal Flatts Guitarist By Night

2010-07-15T11:09:00.000-07:00

Joe Don Rooney, a guitarist and harmony vocalist for the vastly popular country band Rascal Flatts, came to Lake Tahoe, Nev., this week for a two-night sold-out music tour stop at one of the leading casinos in town. But, the 34-year-old got even more than he bargained for.

He’s as happy as he can be with a chance to play in the American Century Championship as well. He’s swinging his golf sticks as a celebrity in the day and playing his guitar at night. And that’s just the way he likes it.

“I try to play golf every day,” says the 34-year-old Rooney, who calls himself an honest 8-handicapper. “I belong at Sage Valley near Aiken, S.C. I’m when I’m in Nashville, I’ll try to play at least three times a week as well.”

Rooney and his band mates Gary Levox and Jay Demarcus have captured the essence of the modern country music sound since coming together in 1999. Rascal Flatts’ new album, “Unstoppable,” is the band’s latest album to be a chart-topper.

“This is the best group of songs we’ve had,” says Rooney, who took up golf with his father at age 13. “The great thing is that every song here means something deeply to us.”

Rascal Flatts’ next stop is next Thursday in Wichita, Kan., before moving to arenas in more of the Midwest and Eastern United States. Those big crowds don’t make him nervous in the least. But, he’s already getting nervous being on the first tee this weekend.

“I’m not sure what my tee times are as yet, but I know I have to be back at the hotel for a meet-and-greet each night by 7:30 p.m.,” says Rooney. “The shows start at 9 p.m.”

by Craig Smith, former director of media relations for the U.S. Golf Association

2010-07-15T08:49:00.000-07:00

What a Stupid Question that was

It’s so different to see some professional athletes out of uniform. I’ll bet some of you didn’t even know golfer Jim Furyk is almost bald. You are so used to seeing him in that golf cap.

Me, I didn’t recognize Brett Hull in golf attire even when he was one of hockey’s top scorers.

It was 2001, and I was dining at an Outback Steakhouse in the Pinehurst, N.C., area. I met Joe Stansberry, an accomplished amateur golfer from Minnesota, who was there with a bunch of his friends on a golf vacation. He introduced me to his buddies, and that’s how I met Brett Hull.

Not looking as intimidating as I thought a hockey star might, I dared to ask a question that haunts me to this day. “What do you do,” I asked?

“I play hockey”, he said, without making me feel the slightest bit embarrassed.

I felt like the guy in the airline commercial who “wants to get away.”

After all, he was in the midst of a brilliant 20-year career, and following in the footsteps of his famous father, Bobby. The 45-year-old Hull retired in 2006, with 741 goals and 1,391 points. At one time, was the top scorer in the NHL and he played on a Stanley Cup title team. Today, he is executive vice president of the Dallas Stars of the NHL.

This week, however, Hull is among the celebrities playing for a $125,000 first prize at the American Century Championship playing in a 54-hole Stableford event at the Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course in Lake Tahoe, Nev. And his Dallas friend, golf instructor Hank Haney, likes his chances.

He made a couple thousand dollars last year, and a 14-year best of $17,503 in 2008.

“I’m patient with crossword puzzles but I’m the most impatient golfer,” Hull has said in the past. “I’m still that way, but I’m a better putter now,” said Hull. “Anybody can hit it, but I really just learned to putt after I’ve been playing the game for 20 years.”

by Craig Smith, former director of media relations for the U.S. Golf Association

2010-07-15T08:48:00.000-07:00

Hull Says “It Counts to Me”

Brett Hull walked to the 17^th tee knowing that he had already completed his practice round Tuesday, having started with his amateur partners on the par-3 17^th hole earlier in the day. But, he couldn’t resist.

His 8-iron from 165 yards away found the hole for an apparent hole-in-one. But wait! It wasn’t official, since his round was already complete. He’d have to continue and go another 18 holes to make it official.

Not according to Hull.

“It counts to me, and that’s my seventh,” said one of the all-time leading scorers in the NHL, who didn’t begin playing golf until in his 20s.

by Craig Smith, former director of media relations for the U.S. Golf Association

2010-07-14T18:29:00.000-07:00

Hank Haney Chooses Tahoe Over British Open

Hank Haney hasn’t missed a British Open in more than 30 years. But, this week he’s in Lake Tahoe, Nev., to play in the American Century Championship with more than 80 celebrities instead of coaching Tiger Woods over the terrain at St. Andrews.

Haney and Woods parted company last month, closing the door on the high-profile relationship that lasted six years. Still, he is rooting for Woods after the world’s top player finished in the top 5 in the first two major championships of the year.

“I think he’s ready to win this week,” said Haney, still in support of his former student who he visited in Ireland last week. “He’s the best player in the world playing on his favorite golf course.”

But Haney is certain that it will be Woods’ putting that will make the difference for him this week. If Woods doesn’t three-putt, he wins almost 85 percent of the time, according to telling statistics kept by Woods’ caddie Steve Willliams.

In the meantime, Haney will turn his attention to former students Charles Barkley and Ray Romano, both in the field here at Tahoe this week. And Haney’s in the field too, playing the Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course for only the second time on Thursday before play starts in earnest.

“I’ve always been busy this week, but it feels kind of nice to be here,” said Haney. “I’ve heard so much about it.”

Haney has coached more than 200 professional golfers in his time, but there will be no more. For Haney, coaching the best player in the world is a good place to end.

By Craig Smith, former director of media relations for the U.S. Golf Association

2010-07-14T10:05:00.000-07:00

Wednesday July 14, 2010

Another picture perfect day in Lake Tahoe. Celebrities including the likes of Actor Jack Wagner, Nascar Driver Dale Jarrett and former NFL All-Pro QB Vinny Testeverde are out on the course sharpening their golf skills. Most of the crowds however are following the twosome of NBA Legend Michael Jordan and Dallas Cowboys QB Tony Romo. Romo and Jordan teed off around 9 o'clock this morning. I think Romo wants to get into MJ's wallet or is it the other way around. I guess we will find out later. A couple of Olympic gold medalists are playing together today. Gold medal speed skater Dan Jansen tees off with 1980 Olympic Hockey Captain Mike Eruzione.

Harrah's Casino also holds their Celeb-Am this afternoon. How cool would it be to play with the likes of Jerome Bettis or Greg Maddux. Today is a great day to take photos and get autographs of your favorite celebrities. Or you could always hang out on the beach at the par 3 17th green were there is always a party going on.

Geoff Burke

Tahoecelebritygolf.com

2010-07-13T12:03:00.000-07:00

July 13, 2010

The 2010 American Century Championship is officially under way. The Lake Tahoe Celeb-Am kicked off the event this morning with celebrities such as 8 time champion Rick Rhoden, 2 time champion Billy Joe Tolliver and the inaugural champion Mark Rypien. Other celebrities playing this morning were former NHL All-Star Brett Hull, former MLB Pitcher John Smoltz and former NFL Running Back Marshall Faulk. The pre tournament action is a great time to get up close and personnel with your favorite celebrities during their practice rounds.

The tournament officially starts on Friday with celebrities enjoying a Modified Stableford scoring system. Players accumulate points for their scores on each hole. An eagle will earn a player 6 points, a birdie 3 points, par gets you 1 point, bogey equals 0 points and double bogey or worse receives -2 points. Winning scores usually end up in the 60 to 70 point total range. This year's favorites include Dallas Cowboys QB Tony Romo, 4 time champion Dan Quinn and NHL Hall of Fame Goaltender Grant Fuhr.

The weather forecast is absolutely perfect for Lake Tahoe all week. If you have a chance get on up here and cheer for your favorite celebrity. This really is the Superbowl of celebrity sports.

Geoff Burke

Tahoecelebritygolf.com

AMERICAN CENTURY CHAMPIONSHIP CHALLENGE: FREE ONLINE GOLF GAME

2010-07-02T09:35:00.000-07:00

Play Edgewood Tahoe Back Nine to Win a VIP Trip to 2011 Tournament

NBC Sports, the American Century Championship and World Golf Tour have created a virtual experience that allows gamers to play the back nine at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course, home of the annual celebrity golf tournament at Lake Tahoe.

Visit www.nbcsports.com/tahoe to play the ACC Challenge

Play the video game unlimited number of times, July 2 – 31

After playing the game, make sure you register for your chance to win great prizes

All winners will be selected at random. Grand prize include a week-long VIP trip to the 2011

American Century Championship: VIP tickets, celebrity parties, lodging and airfare

Ten winners at random will receive ACC Gift Bag: golf shirts, hats, carry bag, golf balls and more

The American Century Championship, the celebrity golf tournament at Lake Tahoe (www.TahoeCelebrityGolf.com), stages 82 sports and entertainment stars and Hall of Famers as they compete in a 54-hole, $600,000 tournament on NBC Sports, July 16-18. Celebrities include: Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley, Tony Romo, Ray Romano, Bode Miller, Troy Aikman, Jerry Rice, Don Cheadle, John Elway and Taylor Hicks

For the fifth consecutive year, the official tournament charity is LIVESTRONG

For printable PDF version of press release visit: American Century Championship Challenge.

Tournament title sponsor American Century Investments is a leading privately controlled investment management firm serving investment professionals, institutions, corporations and individual investors.

“The game is so realistic that players will feel like the celebrities they watch during the telecast playing at Edgewood Tahoe,” said Gary Quinn, director of business development for NBC Sports. “They just won’t get their feet wet along No. 17, the signature lakefront par 3.”

www.TahoeCelebrityGolf.com

www.NBCSports.com

www.WorldGolfTour.com

www.edgewoodtahoe.com

www.TahoeSouth.com
www.livestrong.org

Through its ownership structure, more than 40 percent of company profits support research to help find cures for genetically-based diseases including cancer, diabetes and dementia.

For the fifth consecutive year, the official tournament charity is LIVESTRONG - the organization founded by cancer survivor and champion cyclist Lance Armstrong to inspire and empower people affected by cancer. Since the tournament’s inception in 1990, more than $3 million has been raised for a variety of national and local charities.

Preparation for July's American Century Championship Kicks Into High Gear!

2010-04-15T12:10:00.000-07:00

Celebrity Player RSVPs are pouring in, tickets are on sale on line and the rumor mill is working overtime. The countdown has begun for Lake Tahoe's 2010 American Century Celebrity Golf Championship at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course.

This year's Tahoe Celebrity Golf Week will run July 13th - 18th and will be jam- packed with exciting events that will appeal to everyone. Super Star Chef Guy Fieri will return to Celebrity Golf and no doubt will take more than a "Minute to Win It." The incredible Rascal Flatts will be doing 2 kick butt concerts at Harveys Outdoor Arena on the 16th & 17th and will likely appear at Edgewood during the Tournament.

And there's more -- US Olympic Hockey Team Captain Jamie Langenbrunner will make his first appearance along with skateboarding star Ryan Sheckler and the Minnesota Vikings' defensive end Jared Allen. Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley, Tony Romo and Olympic Gold Medal Skier Bode Miller will return. Log on to TahoeCelebrityGolf.com for an updated list of Celebrity Players who have confirmed for this year.

And stay tuned to this 19th Hole Blog for special announcements on new contests and other exciting events at this year's American Century Championship.

Brian Williams - TahoeCelebrityGolf.com

Rick Rhoden wins the 20th annual Celebrity Golf Championship!

2009-07-19T14:41:00.000-07:00

With a total score of 74 points, former MLB Pitcher Rick Rhoden wins the 2009 American Century Championship. Rhoden somehow squeaked out his 8th Celebrity Championship even though he posted a 2 over par round with four bogies and only 2 birdies for the day. This is the first time Rhoden has won this tournament in consecutive years, is this the start of a new streak? Finishing second was Dallas Cowboys QB Tony Romo just 1 birdie away from Rhoden. Romo shot a 1 under par round of 71 and played consistent golf all day long. Romo made it interesting by making 3 birdies on his last 5 holes. Coming in a tie for third was 4 time Celebrity Champion Dan Quinn and 2 time Celebrity Champion Billy Joe Tolliver. Tolliver started off the day on fire with 4 birdies on his front nine and no bogies. He also shot the lowest score for the day but a couple of bogies down the stretch kept Billy Joe from his third Championship.

The NHL fairs well this year with 5 players in the top 10 including Dallas Stars All Star Mike Modano. Modano posted a round of 3 under par today placing him in 7th place. Jeremy Rhoenick, Pierre Larouche and Grant Fuhr all played solid to give the NHL the most players near the top of this year's tournament.

Well now for the not so good. It was neck and neck between Sir Charles Barkley and MMA Fighter Chuck Liddell. Barkley does take the honors for the worse score with a total of minus 97 points just edging out Liddell's minus 94. I wonder if we will see a sequel to "The Haney Project" with both Barkley and Liddell as the stars. That's it from Edgewood, see you next year.

Geoff Burke Tahoecelebritygolf.com

Final round is underway

2009-07-19T11:07:00.000-07:00

The action is heating up in the final round of the American Century Celebrity Championship. Second round leaders are off to a slow start, Grant Fuhr took a double bogey on the par 4 second hole while Rick Rhoden bogied the par 5 third hole opening the door for players like Dan Quinn and Jeremy Rhoenick. Quinn has birdied 2 of his first 3 holes and Rhoenick posted an eagle on the par 5 fourth hole. First round leader Dallas Cowboys QB Tony Romo is only 3 points back playing solid golf today with 1 birdie so far. Also on the move is former QB Billy Joe Tolliver. Tolliver has a couple of birdies through 5 holes today and usually plays well on the front nine. It looks like it's any of these guys can win this tournament and it will probably come down to the final putt on 18. It's back out to action for me.

Geoff Burke Tahoecelebritygolf.com

Round two is the books!

2009-07-18T15:13:00.000-07:00

After day two of the 2oth American Century Celebrity Golf Championship we have a tie atop the leaderboard between NHL Hall of Fame Goalie Grant Fuhr and former MLB Pitcher Rick Rhoden both with 56 points. Both Fuhr and Rhoden posted 5 under par rounds of 67. Rhoden made 8 birdies in his round today including birdies on his last 4 holes. Fuhr played well today sinking 2 eagle putts on the par fives scoring a total of 32 points which is a new single day point record. The leaders are 7 points ahead of second place contenders Tony Romo and 4 time Celebrity Champion Dan Quinn. Quinn climbed the leader board today by posting a 4 under par round of 68 scoring 28 points for the day. Also scoring well today were Hockey greats Jeremy Roenick with 27 points and Brett Hull with 26 points. Six celebrity golfers posted rounds under par today, not bad!

The race for last place is still between MMA Fighter Chuck Liddell and NBA Hall of Famer Charles Barkley. Barkley gained a little bit of ground today on Liddell by scoring negative 31 points for the day. Liddell on the other hand bettered his first round score by only scoring negative 28 points.

Looks like someone will have to go really low tomorrow to contend with the leaders but it is possible. See you tomorrow.

Geoff Burke Tahoecelebritygolf.com

Day two from the Celebrity Championship

2009-07-18T11:51:00.000-07:00

Round two is already underway and the birdies are flying around the course. NHL Hall of Fame Goalie, Grant Fuhr, is currently in the lead after posting 2 birdies and an eagle through his first 6 holes. First round leader Dallas Cowboys QB, Tony Romo, has all par's so far after his first 6 holes and is 4 points behind Fuhr with 33 points. 7 time Celebrity Golf Champion, Rick Rhoden is holding steady in second just one point behind the leader. Making a move today is actor Jack Wagner scoring 16 points with 4 birdies on his front nine so far. 2 time Celebrity Golf Champion Billy Joe Tolliver is also on the move posting birdies on his front nine.

As a special treat today the Food Network's own Guy Fieri is cooking up some grub on the 17th hole at Edgewood. Fieri plans to make a Pork en Fuego sandwich for both Celebrities and fans. The popular Food Network Star rolled in to Tahoe in a custom golf cart complete with flames on the side and a lift kit with big tires. Fieri's cart is also equipped with nitrous and a rocking stereo. You just never know who will show up at this event. The action is really heating up today so it's back out to the course for me.

Geoff Burke Tahoecelebritygolf.com

Dallas Cowboys Quarterback leads after round 1

2009-07-17T15:13:00.000-07:00

Cowboys Quarterback Tony Romo leads after round 1 of the 20th annual American Century Celebrity Golf Championship. Romo fired a 3 under par round of 69 scoring a total of 27 points for the day. Tony had 7 birdies today with only 2 bogies and one double bogey. Coming in second today with 25 points is none other than 7 time Celebrity Golf Champion Rick Rhoden. The former MLB Pitcher posted a 2 under par round of 70 with 5 birdies for the day. It would be hard to bet against Rhoden at this point in time with such a strong start to this Championship. 2 other former champions of this tournament round out the top 5. 3 time winner former NHL Center Dan Quinn and 2 time winner former NFL Quarterback Billy Joe Tolliver both scored a total of 21 points today only a couple of birdies away. Early leader NHL All Star Mike Madano ended up in a tie for 14th place with Fox Sports Announcer Joe Buck and Actor Jack Wagner, all still within striking distance. MMA Fighter Chuck Liddell holds steady in last place with minus 36 points only 6 points in front of Sir Charles Barkley. We will be back tomorrow with more updates on the leaders.

Geoff Burke Tahoecelebritygolf.com

Day one at Lake Tahoe

2009-07-17T12:53:00.000-07:00

The first round is officially underway at the 20th American Century Celebrity Golf Championship. We have some new faces atop this morning's leader board. NHL All Star Center, Mike Madano is currently in a three-way tie with former NFL Quarterbacks Trent Dilfer and Vinny Testaverde all with 17 points. The Stableford scoring system used for this tournament rewards players with points. A double eagle is worth 10 points, hole in one 8 points,eagle is 6 points, birdie is 3 points, par is 1 point, bogie is 0 points and double bogie or worse is minus 2 points. Speaking of a hole in one, the first ace was carded by former NFL Running Back Marshall Faulk. Faulk's hole in one occurred on the par 3 17th hole just a few minutes ago.

A few more new faces that are performing well today are Fox Sports Announcer Joe Buck and Arizona Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt. First timer MMA Fighter Chuck Liddell is edging out former MLB Outfielder Darryl Strawberry and NBA Hall of Famer Charles Barkley for last place.

We have real time scoring from our Tournament Action page so get updates of your favorite celebrities here.

Geoff Burke Tahoecelebritygolf.com

It's a Numbers Game

2009-07-16T10:03:00.000-07:00

Wondering who might win this years American Century Celebrity Golf Championship? Your answer might be as close as the casino sports book odds sheet.

Former MLB All-Star Pitcher Rick Rhoden is the odds on favorite at 9/5, which comes as no surprise since he's won this tournament a record seven times. NFL All-Pro QB Tony Romo, in only his second appearance, is favored at 3/1 with Former NHL Center Dan Quinn, former NFL Quarterback Billy Joe Tolliver and NHL Hall of Fame goalie Grant Fuhr all at 5/1 odds. Quinn has won this tournament three times and Tolliver is a two time champion making them both safe bets.

Longer odds players who have a real chance to be in the hunt on Sunday are actor Jack Wagner (7/1) and Former NHL All-Stars Pierre Larouche (10/1) and Brett Hull (15/1). All three finished tied for 5th place in 2008, only six points behind Rhoden's winning score of 68 points.

On the other hand if you have money to burn and believe in miracles place your bets on comedian/actor Ray Romano (200/1), NFL All-Time Rushing Leader Emmitt Smith (200/1) or actor Kevin Nealon (500/1). Charles Barkley's opening line was 500/1 but dropped to 499/1 as of July 15. After months of training with renowned golf coach Hank Haney, many thought Barkley might find his game before this years tournament. It seems the sports handicappers aren't so optimistic.

All odds listed above are subject to change.

Stan Bautista Tahoecelebritygolf.com

2009 LTVA Celebrity-Am Tournament

2009-07-14T15:04:00.000-07:00

The 20th anniversary of the American Century Celebrity Golf Championship officially got underway today with the LTVA Celebrity-Am Tournament. This best ball Stableford scoring event partners four amateurs with a celebrity in a test of Edgewood's tournament tough layout. More than just a round of golf, players are treated to an exclusive breakfast, gift bag worth over $250 and an awards luncheon with their celebrity following play. This year's list of celebrities included the likes of World Class Skier, Bode Miller, former NFL All-Pro QB, Steve Bartkowski and NHL Hall of Fame Goalie, Grant Fuhr.

The winning team this year was headed up former NFL QB, Billy Joe Tolliver. Tolliver is a 2-time winner of this championship and is always a crowd favorite. Coming in second was the group of Cleveland Browns QB, Derek Anderson. Anderson is a first timer to this event and looks to be staring it off on the right foot. San Jose Sharks All Star Center, Jeremy Roenick helped his group to a third place finish and a trip to the tournament podium as well bragging rights.

A few big time celebrities were also seen on the course sharpening up their skills and getting ready for this weekend. NFL Hall of Fame QB, John Elway was playing in a group with former Denver Broncos coach Mike Shanahan, and former Bronco's Safety, John Lynch. The orange and blue were well represented today. NBA Superstar, Michael Jordan got in a friendly round with former Pittsburgh Steelers RB, Jerome Bettis. The "Bus" and "MJ" went through some cigars today. Actor Jack Wagner, NHL Hall of Famer, Mario Lemieux and Three time Celebrity Champion, Dan Quinn were also seen getting some practice in today. It's only Tuesday and the star power is already heating up. Early days are always great for getting up close with your favorite celebrity. Stay tuned to Tahoecelebritygolf.com for all the early round action.

Geoff Burke Tahoecelebritygolf.com sports writer

2009 Celebrity Golf Tournament is almost here!

2009-07-08T06:59:00.000-07:00

With the 2009 American Celebrity Golf Championship just a week away the excitement around the Edgewood Tahoe golf course is heating up. The golf course is in great shape and as usual the weather should be perfect for the 20th anniversary of this star-studded event. Speaking of stars, there are almost 20 first timers to the event this year. Athletes such as Buffalo Bills QB, Trent Edwards, former NFL All-Pro Safety, John Lynch, MMA fighter Chuck Liddell and Houston Rockets Forward, Shane Battier are among those scheduled to attend. I wonder if Battier is rested up enough after trying to guard Kobe Bryant durning the NBA Playoffs? Also teeing it up for the first time are Professional Poker Player, Daniel Negreanu and Actor Oliver Hudson from Rules of Engagement. However you like your celebrities, there is something for everyone at this year's tournament.

Most of the talk around the golf community has to be about the swing of former NBA All-Star Charles Barkley. Earlier this year Sir Charles was paired up with Tiger Wood's guru swing coach, Hank Haney in a Golf Channel series call "The Haney Project". If anyone could fix the worst swing in golf it had to be Hank. Charles seemed to be making great progress, but under pressure he would always revert back to his old self. This is the first time Charles will test his new swing in the heat of competition and I can't wait to see what happens. I wonder if the Casino's are taking odds on this one?

If you're lucky enough to be attending this year's tournament I hope to see you up in Lake Tahoe. Don't forget you can always log onto www.tahoecelebritygolf.com to catch up on all the action.

The final round of the 2008 American Century Celebrity Golf Championship is in the books

2008-07-13T14:43:00.000-07:00

What an exciting tournament this turned out to be. It came down to the final putt on the 18th hole for former MLB Pitcher, Rick Rhoden. The all time leading money winner on the Celebrity Tour sank a six foot putt for a birdie to become the 2008 Celebrity Golf Champion. Rhoden's previous victories have all come in odd years making this win even more special for the now seven time event Champion. Rhoden had to birdie the last 2 holes to overcome former NHL All-Star Center, Dan Quinn. Quinn held the lead in the clubhouse after shooting a 4 under par round of 68 scoring 28 points for the day falling just one point shy of capturing his 5th title. Coming in a tie for third place this week was Dallas Cowboys Quarterback, Tony Romo and NHL Hall of Fame Goaltender, Grant Fuhr. Fuhr also fired a 4 under par round of 68 scoring 27 points today and 64 points for the tournament. Romo on the other hand, posted an even par round of 72 with 3 bogies and 3 birdies. Romo did have a chance to tie Quinn in the clubhouse with an eagle putt on 18.

There was a three way tie for 5th place between Actor Jack Wagner and NHL Hockey great's Brett Hull and Pierre Larouche. Both Wagner and Hull posted 2 under par rounds of 70 scoring 25 points for the day. Rounding out the top ten are Superbowl MVP, Mark Rypien, San Jose Sharks Center, Jeremy Roenick, Hall of Fame Quarterback, John Elway and Hall of Fame Linebacker, Lawrence Taylor.

It was another great year at the Superbowl of Celebrity Sports and we will see you again for the 20th anniversary of this event in 2009.

Geoff Burke
Tahoecelebritygolf.com

Final round is underway at the Celebrity Golf Championship

2008-07-13T11:08:00.000-07:00

The leaders are on the course and have all pared their first two holes. There is not alot of chatter between the final group because they are all out here to win the $125,000 first prize and the 2008 title. Jumping into 3rd place this morning is former NFL Quarterback, Mark Rypien. Rypien just birdied the par 5 3rd hole giving the Superbowl MVP 44 points just 3 points out of the lead. Buffalo Bills Head Coach, Dick Jauron, is playing solid golf with all par's and 1 birdie on his front nine. Jauron has scored 9 points today so far and is leading the list of both fomer and present professional sports coaches.

Superbowl MVP Quarterback, Joe Theisman, has just turned in a 2 under par front nine round of 34 scoring 13 points so far for the day. Theisman has played great golf over the year's here at Edgewood but has yet to put together 3 good rounds. First round leaders NHL great's Jeremy Roenick and Brett Hull are falling back out of the top 10 but don't count out these hockey buddies on the back nine. Well it's back out to the course to get the final scoop for the tournament.

Geoff Burke
Tahoecelebritygolf.com

2nd round of the American Century Championship is complete

2008-07-12T14:56:00.000-07:00

Six time Celebrity Golf Champion, Rick Rhoden, leads the field after today's 2nd round with a total of 45 points. Rhoden fired an even par round of 72 with 5 birdies and 3 bogies on his card scoring him 22 points for the day. The former MLB Pitcher holds a 2 point lead over Dallas Cowboys Quarterback, Tony Romo. Romo's 1 under par round of 73 scored the crowd favorite 20 points and a date in the final group come Sunday. The next 3 spots are held by the NHL's finest. San Jose Sharks All-Star Center, Jeremy Roenick, started the day with the lead but posted a 6 over par round of 78 only scoring the future Hall of Fame center 15 points. Roenick is currently in a tie for 3rd place with former NHL All-Star Center Pierre Larouche both with 41 points only a par and a birdie away from the lead. Four time winner of this event, Dan Quinn, posted the 2nd best round of the day with a 1 under par round of 71 and 22 points for the day. Quinn and Rhoden own over half of the victories in this event so don't count out the former NHL All-Star Center. The best round of the day by far was turned in by 2 time Suberbowl MVP, John Elway. Elway's impressive round of 4 under par 68 scored the Hall of Fame Quarterback 27 points. Elway is one of only 6 celebrities to play in all 19 Celebrity Golf Championship's. There are 10 players within striking distance of our leader so Sunday should be some pretty exciting golf. Check back tomorrow for the final round fireworks.

Geoff Burke
Tahoecelebritygolf.com

It's moving day at the Celebrity Golf Championship

2008-07-12T12:06:00.000-07:00

Round 2 is under way at Edgewood Tahoe and some big moves are being made and I do mean BIG! Hall of Fame NFL Linebacker, Lawrence Taylor, is sitting atop the leaderboard half way through the second round. LT has posted 3 birdies and no bogies so far today with 6 holes left and 2 par 5's. Taylor has already scored 18 points matching his total from yesterday. Also making a move today is six time Celebrity Golf Champion Rick Rhoden. This former MLB Pitcher started the day off by posting birdies on 3 of his first 6 holes and is just now making the turn to start his back nine. You can never count the all time leading money winner on the Celebrity Tour. When Rhoden starts to make a move most of the other players start looking for second place.

Last year's champion, former NFL All-Pro Quarterback Chris Chandler, sits alone in 5th place right now playing solid golf with only one double bogie and an eagle on the par 5 4th hole. First round leaders NHL Hockey greats Jeremy Roenick and Brett Hull are almost finished with their front nine and are still a threat to score some points before the end of the day. Actor Jack Wagner started of the day on fire with 3 birdies in a row but has since been on the bogie train. The back nine at Edgewood is usually where players can score big points so check back in for the final scores from round 2.

Geoff Burke
Tahoecelebritygolf.com

It's "Hockey Day" at the first round of the Celebrity Golf Championship

2008-07-11T14:47:00.000-07:00

The National Hockey League captures the top 3 spots after the first round of the American Century Celebrity Golf Championship. Leading the way is the San Jose Sharks All-Star Center, Jeremy Roenick. Roenick fired a 2 under par round of 70, scoring a total of 26 points just edging out playing partner and former NHL All-Star Brett Hull. Hull's 1 under par round consisted of 4 birdies and one eagle scoring him a total of 25 points. Both Hull and Roenick eagled the 18th hole which scores 6 points in this modified stableford scoring system. Rounding out the top three is another former NHL All-Star, Pierre Larouche. Larouche played solid golf all day long and posted a 1 under par round of 71 scoring the 2 time Stanley Cup Champion 23 points.

Six-time Celebrity Golf Champion, Rick Rhoden, finished up strong by shooting 2 under par on his final 9 holes. This former MLB Pitcher was only 1 birdie away from tying Roenick for first place. Also tied with Rhoden is Dallas Cowboys Quarterback Tony Romo and former Superbowl MVP Mark Rypien. Romo started of on fire but just couldn't keep it going on his back nine. By most accounts, Rypien played the best golf of the day but only managed to score 23 points with only 1 bogie coming on the par 3 17th hole.

Early round leader Vince Coleman played great golf but finished up by posting 2 bogies on his final 2 holes leaving him with only 22 points tied for 7th. Also scoring 22 points today is the NFL All-Time Receiving leader Jerry Rice. Rice posted an even par round of 72 with 4 birdies. It was Jerry's best round at this tournament so far. The question is will these first time leaders fold under the weekend pressure or will we have a new champion come Sunday.

Geoff Burke
Tahoecelebritygolf.com

Mid day tournament action

2008-07-11T12:30:00.000-07:00

We are just about half way through the first round of this year's Celebrity Golf Championship. Early round leaders have given way to some new names atop the leaderboard. MLB All-Star Outfielder, Vince Coleman, has been holding steady with a one under par round of 35 on his first nine holes. Posting another one under par round of 35 is former NFL Quarterback Mark Rypien. Rypien won the first tournament here way back in 1990 and has finished in the top 10 many times. Posting the best front nine so far is Dallas Cowboys Quarterback Tony Romo. Romo started off a little bit rusty with 2 bogies but has since scored 2 birdies and an eagle on the par 5 forth hole.

The usual suspects in this tournament like Rick Rhoden, Dan Quinn, Billy Jo Tolliver and Jack Wagner are all off to very slow starts. None of these past champions is currently in the top 10. Could this be the year that someone else adds their name to this impressive list of champions.

Stay tuned to Tahoecelebritygolf.com for all the latest photos, commentary and video from this year's tournament. We will be back for more blogging once the first round is complete.

Geoff Burke

The first round of the 2008 Celebrity Golf Championship is under way!

2008-07-11T09:43:00.000-07:00

It's Friday morning at Edgewood Tahoe Golf course and the action is already heating up. The early lead is held by former NFL All-Pro Quarterback Steve Bartkowski with 6 points. Bartkowski is playing solid golf with 3 pars and 1 birdie in this modified stableford scoring system. Players are awarded 1 point for par, 3 points for a birdie, 6 points for an eagle and so on. Former MLB All-Star Outfielder, Vince Coleman, is alone in second place with 5 points. Coleman has posted 2 par's and 1 birdie so far on his round. First timer to this event Nascar great, Dale Jarrett, birdied his first hole at Edgewood to score a quick 3 points shooting him right up the leaderboard. Jarrett is the only player so far to birdie the first hole. Go Dale Go!

On the lighter side this morning, 19 month old William Dylan O'Hurley. Son of Actor/Host John O'Hurley, launched his golf career by hitting a few shots with his Dad this morning on the driving range in front of fans and celebrities cheering him on. Talk about pressure. That's all for now at Edgewood. I am heading back on to the course to get the latest scoop. :)

Geoff Burke
Tahoecelebritygolf.com

Hall of Fame Quarterback John Elway wins the 2008 Brodie Award

2008-07-10T10:13:00.000-07:00

"The Brodie," as it has become known, is an award given to honor an athlete or personality who has achieved success in their field and in the great game of golf. The inaugural award was presented to John Brodie who was voted NFL MVP in 1970 and then won on the senior PGA Tour in 1991. Brodie contended for many years at the Celebrity Championship and has helped to promote the popularity of this Super Bowl of sports golf tournament. Although Brodie never won this tournament, one of his greatest moments came last year when son-in-law, former All-Pro Quarterback Chris Chandler, won the 2007 American Celebrity Golf Championship.

This year's award is presented to former Denver Broncos MVP Quarterback John Elway. Elway has played in the last 18 Celebrity Golf Championships posting 8 top ten finishes. Elway has contended for this title many times, but his best finish is a tie for second in 1999. John Elway has one of the most impressive resumes of any athlete or personality out here. Elway was voted into a record tying 9 Pro Bowls, has 47 game winning or game tying drives, 2 Super Bowl rings and was voted into the Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility. Previous winners of this award include NHL Superstar and 1998 Celebrity Golf Champion, Mario Lemieux, and MLB star pitcher and six time winner of this event, Rick Rhoden.

Some years ago, John Brodie suffered a life threatening stroke. After aggressive therapy, Brodie's road to recovery continues and he is always a fixture at this tournament.

Geoff Burke

Day 2 at Tahoe Celebrity Golf Week

2008-07-09T17:52:00.000-07:00

Wednesday July 9 - It was a great day for fans to get "up close and personal" with their favorite celebrities. Celebrities enjoyed Tahoe's great weather to try and sharpen their skills for the start of Friday's first round. Crowd favorite Michael Jordan was seen teeing it up with Dallas Cowboys QB Tony Romo. I wonder how many shots the All-Pro Quarterback had to give the Six Time NBA Champion. Many think Romo is the "sand bagger" in this year's tournament. The odds makers have Tony at 8/1 to win in 2008. Speaking of odds, topping the list is six time Celebrity Golf Champion Rick Rhoden at 9/5. Historically, all Rhoden's victories have come in odd years. Could this be Rhoden's year to start a new streak? The mighty Dan Quinn comes in at 2/1 with Billy Joe Tolliver rounding out the top 3 at 4/1. My Cinderella pick to win this year's tournament is first-time player, Nascar great Dale Jarrett. Jarrett is coming in at 12/1 odds in the casinos. Jarrett was offered a full scholarship to play golf in college at the University of South Carolina. It will be interesting to see how this professional race car driver fits in with this brotherhood of professional athletes. There has only been one non-athlete to win this tournament -- actor Jack Wagner in 2006.

More practice rounds and the Celeb-Am scheduled for tomorrow, but stay tuned, because at Edgewood Tahoe anything is possible.

Geoff Burke

Day One at Tahoe Celebrity Golf Week

2008-07-08T19:26:00.000-07:00

Tahoe Celebrity Golf Week 2008, is up and running.
Tuesday, July 8th - Today's Scoop from the 19th Hole @ Edgewood Tahoe's Press Room. Breaking News: Cat's out of the bag - Wayne and Judy Gretzky are enroute to South Lake Tahoe to compete in this year's American Century Celebrity Golf Championship. NHL's Gretzky, aka The Great One, last played this prestigeous tournament in 1999. Let's see how the Phoenix Coyotes boss and Mrs. G. fair this year with Modified Stableford Rules in play. No doubt, Wayne's Goaltender coach Grant Fuhr and other NHL alumni pals in this tournament will contribute a little guidance.

Speaking of Grant Fuhr, this could very well be his year at Edgewood Tahoe. This Alberta native, NHL All Star and Hall of Famer has a chance to walk out of here with $125 Gs on Sunday. A possible future Brodie Award contender yes?!

Today they played the LTVA Celeb Am at Edgewood. It's the traditional kick off event for this week long Celebrity Golf Celebration. About 18 Celeb Players teamed up with guys who are in the know and enjoy a good game of golf with a competitive edge. Today's winners; The Harrah's Tahoe Team headed up by our own Mr. V and Family with ACC's very first tournament champion, NFL's Mark Rypien.

A few other Celeb Players were spotted on the course today getting in an extra practice round. Among them, Baltimore Ravens QB Kyle Boller and defending ACC Champ - Chris Chandler. Both sporting multi day stubbles which makes one wonder if these boys are prepping for a new NBC TV series. Not likely.

Something big's in the works here at Edgewood this weekend for Sir Charles. We'd tell ya, but then we'd have to - well, you know. But we do promise it isn't a rematch sprint race with a certian NBA Ref.

Wednesday the 9th is official Practice Round Day at Edgewood and from Weather.com's local prediction - the hottest day of the year. But we're predicting more fair winds that will keep the Tahoe Basin somewhat clear of smoke. And then - the Burkster, along with Stan, The Man With The Booming Voice - will be here Wednesday to continue these blog extravagancies. (Hark! A huge cheer erupts from the blogosphere).

Don't forget to catch all the fun, games and more than just a few exciting putts - from Lake Tahoe this weekend on ESPN and NBC Sports. Later . . .

Tahoe Celebrity Golf Week . . . July 8-13, 2008

2008-07-04T06:53:00.000-07:00

It's show time at Edgewood Tahoe and we are ready for the first tee off of Tahoe Celebrity Golf Week 2008. We'll be blogging live from the Press Room at Edgewood - right through next Sunday's Round 3 of this 19th Annual American Century Celebrity Golf Championship at Lake Tahoe.

The Burkster, our sports editor extraordinaire, will be heading up this desk for the duration. No doubt he'll be getting input from Stan the Man and other numerous luminaries of various persuasions and handicaps.

Big announcement this Monday - a last minute Celebrity Player addition. No names, but his initials are W.G. Stay tuned ;-)