For me, 2014 begins with the announcement of a new sponsor, Adams Golf.
As a player you’re looking at a whole bunch of factors when deciding on something as fundamentally important as your equipment sponsor. Seriously, you just can’t compromise on the tools of your trade, not even one per cent. That’s why I’m so excited about joining Adams. Everything about the company impresses me. Their enthusiasm and energy, along with their strong products, were a major part of this decision.
Obviously, I’ve long been aware of the company and its products. In recent years I’ve noticed a lot of Adams clubs out there on Tour and not just in the bags of their ambassadors! It’s no surprise then that they’re the company that leads the hybrid category on the PGA Tour and now the European Tour, too. It made me curious to try them out for myself and I must say I have enjoyed testing their entire range of products and feel really comfortable putting the clubs in my bag.
Right now we’re working hard to finalize the configuration and exact specs of my set, focusing specifically on the Tight Lies fairway metals and XTD irons and hybrids. Really can’t wait now to use them in competitive play later this month at the Qatar Masters. Admittedly it’s a slightly later start to the season than is usual for me, but I can’t remember the last time I had these two weeks off and it’s wonderful to be able to spend more time with the family and take the kids to school. It’s something I hardly ever get the opportunity to do once the season starts proper and, as I’m sure any dad would understand, you want to make the most of these little moments while you can.
Start of a new chapter…
In many respects this feels like the start of an exciting new chapter for me. Adams is an ambitious, growing company that wants to expand internationally and is opening offices all over the world so we’re a pretty good fit, as I still like to play a global schedule.
And looking ahead, it’s a major comfort to me that I’m partnered with a company where innovation is at the heart of everything they do, where the R&D team is always looking to push the envelope and pursue new ideas that ultimately help players of all skill levels play better.
That’s one of the great things about this game; it doesn’t matter who you are, you never stop wanting to play better. I’m 44 years of age and feel as committed as ever to trying to win another major, maybe two. I just need to stay dedicated and continue to work hard, and then I think we can pull something off again. It’s not going to be easy, but there are some decent opportunities for me in the next few years and I believe working with Adams is going to help me get the absolute most out of my game.
Winning is what still drives me and clearly everyone at Adams shares that same mentality. Yes, I think we’re going to get along great together!
