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Wednesday 27th August

I played at 9am this morning in the pro am, it was windy with some showers.   I had planned to go to watch Aberdeen play Ayr tonight but I had a terrible headache so I decided against it.   I play at 1.20pm tomorrow with David Howell and Bradley Dredge, who are both good guys.

Tuesday 26th August

We are at Gleneagles this week for the Johnnie Walker Championship which is always a really good event.   I am playing nine holes today with Mark Loftus who I haven't seen for a while.......I need some pocket money!   There's a lot of talk about Faldo's two picks for the Ryder Cup, I would pick Darren Clarke and who ever is the highest player in the world rankings not already qualified.   I thought Big D played really well last week and he was in a good frame of mind.

KLM Open 4RD 71+66+70+70=277 (-3) T32

70 today which was as usual made up of a lot of really good golf but some awful stuff as well.   My good is very good but my bad is atrocious.   It was quite windy again but the scoring seems to be good.

The Paul Lawrie Foundation is again proud shirt sponsors of the FDS 14's who's season began today.   Unfortunately the boys lost 5 -2 to Cove but I think you will agree they look great in their new kit.

KLM Open 3RD 71+66+70=207 (-3)

A very mixed bag today with birdies, bogeys and a double at the 9th.   I played really good on the back nine to salvage level par but overall I'm a little disappointed with 70.   Good result for the Dons today though.

KLM Open 2RD 71+66=137 (-3)

I was 66 today and played good, it was very easy and simple which was nice.   It probably could have been a few less but I'm not one to complain!   Darren Clarke played really well and did himself no harm for a pick for Ryder Cup and Nick Dougherty was so unlucky with the putter.

I was disappointed with yesterday's Daily Record headline regarding the question I was asked about Monty getting a pick from Faldo.   The headline was typical of the press but I should know better, I suppose.

KLM Open 1RD 71 (+1)

I was two under with three holes to go then hit the ball sideways coming in.   How many times has that happened over the last few years!!   I played good enough for the first 15 holes to be in contention then played awful to finish, so so frustrating.   Still no suitcase has arrived from KLM, shocking service but do they care......NO!

Wednesday 20th August

Still no suitcase!!   I played in the pro am this morning at 8.15am, we had some heavy rain showers but the course is in awesome condition.   There was also a strong wind which made it quite tricky.   The forecast is not great this week, so patience is going to be key.   I play at 7.50am tomorrow with Darren Clarke and Nick Dougherty.

Tuesday 19th August

My flight to Amsterdam was delayed an hour this morning because of bad weather.   The captain announced that they had to off load some bags in order to take off and guess who's bag was one of those.   I went shopping this afternoon to buy some socks, shirts etc, KLM said my suitcase probably wouldn't arrive until Wednesday night.   I went to the course but it was extremely windy so I spent the time chipping and putting.

SAS Masters 2RD 72+72=144 (+4)

Two over 72 again today.   I got off to a bad start with bogeys at the 2nd, 3rd and 4th, I then had loads of chances but just couldn't get any putts to drop.   My short game was unusually poor this week, so it's a weekend off which is never good.   I can't get home tonight so I'll get an early flight in the morning.

SAS Masters 1RD 72 (+2)

It turned out to be a disappointing day but with 6 holes to go I was -1 and playing ok but I made 3 bogeys coming in which was a pity.   The conditions were tough this morning with heavy rain showers and a strong breeze blowing.   I have been trying to shorten my backstroke with the putter which makes it hard to get the pace on the long putts.   I misjudged a few today, it's a good job I'm a patient man!!

Wednesday 13th August

I played in the pro am this afternoon, the course is very wet after days of heavy rain but it's in good condition.   We teed off at 1pm in the shotgun which was ideal as I went up early this morning to practise.

Tuesday 12th August

I flew into Stockholm this afternoon via Amsterdam.   I'm looking forward to getting back playing after three weeks off the tour.   We had a really good time with the boys, we played a lot of golf as both Craig and Michael have the golf bug at the moment.   I have three tournaments in a row now, the SAS Masters, KLM Open and the Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles.

Monday 11th August

Congratulations to my pal Alistair Forsyth for his top 10 finish at the US PGA last week.   I'm sure he will be chuffed to bits with his week's work.....but what about Padraig?   Back to back Majors is a fantastic achievement.   The putts he holed down the stretch and the guts he showed was brilliant.   His short game was definately the difference and it is a lesson for all of us at just how important that part of the game is.

Saturday 9th August

Team Lawrie played in the Pro cel am at Peterculter this morning in the most awful weather which was tough for the boys but again they did well to shoot -4 as a team.   I shot 68 -3 which was pretty good in the conditions.   We are off to Pittodrie this afternoon, hopefully to see the first home win of the season.

Friday 8th August

We were all up in Turriff today to play in their pro am but before the golf we all had lunch at Celebrations which was superb.   The boys were my team again and they played really well and shot 13 under par which I thought was really good because the maximum handicap is 18.   I played very nicely shooting 62 -8 to win.   The course was in magnificient condition and everyone looked after us so well.   My putting was a lot better today, I worked on shortening my backstroke over the last few days which worked a treat.

Wednesday 6th August

We were at Deer Park yesterday to play in the Deer Park Masters.   John Muir who owns the course and tournament had invited me to play a few weeks ago.   Craig, Michael and their cousin Sean played with me as my pro am team.   My ball striking was good but I left too many out on the course with the putter, I finished with a 69.   Unfortunately the second round was cancelled today because of heavy rain which was a pity as the boys and I were out putting till dark last night!!

Monday 4th August

Today we held the first Paul Lawrie Foundation Team Challenge at The Carrick which was sponsored by Barclays Commercial.   The was a Ryder Cup style match with 2 team of 20 players.   I captained my team which was made up of my Junior Golf Programme sponsors and we played against a Barclays Commercial team captained by Bernard Gallacher.   The day went extremely well and it was played in great spirit and the weather was superb.   My thanks go to Derek Weir and his team at Barclays, also to Bernard Gallacher for giving up his time and to Hector Emslie and his team at Golfers Scotland and finally to everyone at the Carrick for looking after us so well.

Derek Weir and I holding the Team Challenge Trophy

Bernard and myself on the 1st Tee

Saturday 2nd August

I hit balls early this morning and then went to watch Craig train with his FDS team at Kaimhill.   It was then home for a quick bite of lunch then down to Carnoustie to watch the second 18 holes in the Final of the Scottish Amateur Championship.   I presented the winner, Callum McCaulay with the trophy.   Craig came with me and we both enjoyed watching a match played in great spirit and high quality.   I mentioned to Callum in my speech that only the good looking and talented win at Carnoustie!!

Friday 1st August

We got back from Aviemore last night, we all had a great time and the weather was superb.   We managed to pack in so much into 4 days. 

Today the boys and I played along with their cousin Sean in the 4th annual Aberdeen Former Players golf day at Deeside.   We had 79 stableford points as a team, so the boys did well.   Well done to Duncan Davidson and everyone involved in the organising what was a fantastic day.

Tuesday 29th July

We are up in Aviemore for a few days, we arrived yesterday and went straight to the Grass Sledging, which was awesome fun.   This morning we were swimming and then played 18 holes on the Spey Valley Championship course.   We have been coming up here for a few years now, we really enjoy it because there's always plenty to do.   I must say the grass sledging was ace!!

Monday 28th July

On Friday I took the boys out to Meldrum for the day but unfortunately there was quite a bit of fog, so we chipped and putted but we did manage a few holes later on.   I hit balls on Saturday morning early then picked Craig up from his pre season session with FDS.   He was shall we say a touch tired after it!!   Michael played in our flag event at Royal Aberdeen on Sunday morning, Craig and I walked round.   He played good and reached the 9th green with his 36 shots.  I handed out the prizes.   The standard of play by both boys and girls is amazing and great to watch.

Thursday 24th July

I was down playing the new Castle Course at St Andrews today with Mr Muir, Stuart Cruickshank and Robin Hiseman (EGD).   We talked through ideas and had a chat about how Blairs would look and play.   It was great to catch up and Mr Muir kept us all on our toes.   The Castle course, in my opinion is a nice layout but the greens have been over done with severe slopes.

Wednesday 23rd July

I played at Carnoustie this morning with Mike Fleming and his two guests Alistair and Nick.   Mike had bought the round of golf at our Junior Golf dinner last year.   We had a great day and a real good laugh.   The course was excellent as always and really busy with Americans.

Monday 21st July

We watched the end of the Open last night and I thought Padraig played fantastic, especially down to stretch.   To defend a Major is a huge step forward for him.   To say I am pleased for him is an understatement.   Many congratulations to Padraig and all his family because everyone plays a part.

I saw Gillian Mitchell for my fornightly crunch this morning.   Then the kids and I headed out to Meldrum for the day, we played 9 holes then had lunch, hit some balls then played another 9 holes.   The boys played well and really enjoyed it.   One of Marian's friends has invited us round for dinner tonight, which I am looking forward to.

Sunday 20th July

I hit balls for a few hours early this morning and then spent an hour in the gym.   When I got home the boys were up at the green doing some chipping, which is great as I keep telling them that it's the short game that makes the difference.   I will be watching the last round of the Open in between popping out to the green to chip and putt.   I hope Padraig wins again as his work ethic is fantastic.

John Stirling, myself, Bill Copeland and The Ryder Cup

at the Paul Lawrie Junior Golf Dinner

Saturday 19th July

We flew home this morning on the 8.45am flight from Manchester and the amazing thing was, so did our luggage!!   I have three weeks  off now so I'll be spending it in the gym and hitting plenty of balls.   My iron play this week was very poor, so I will be sorting that out as quickly as possible.

Open 2RD 77+73=150 (+10)

Today I drove the ball awesome, missing only one fairway but I only hit four greens.   I don't think I have every hit so many poor iron shots as I have this week.   Today I did really well to keep making pars but eventually it catches up with you.

Open 1RD 77 (+7)

My ball striking was very, very poor today, I also struggled with my short game and putting and if you throw in a poor attitude, it all adds up to 7 over par 77....very disappointing.   I was four over standing on the 17th tee which is a downwind par 5 and made a double bogey, I also bogeyed the 18th, so it was a very poor finish.

Wednesday 14th July

I played the course early this morning with Anthony Wall, teeing off at 6.30am.   The course is in fantastic condition and playing pretty hard and fast.   Both practise days the wind has blown really hard making it very difficult to get the ball close.   It's a pity we don't play links golf more often.  After my practise round I went to the range to work on knock down shots which will need to be good this week.   In the afternoon I had a one hour signing session for Glenmuir in the merchandising tent.

Tuesday 13th July

We had our Junior Golf dinner last night at the Marcliffe which was a very good evening.   My thanks to all the table sponsors and of course to Stewart Spence and his team for another wonderful meal.   We raised just over £20,000 which is great and it will go to very good use in the Junior Programme.  My thanks also to our guest speakers, Bill Copeland and John Stirling who were both very good.   Thanks also to our MC for the night, Ian Thain.  We are at the airport now waiting for our flight to Manchester for this weeks Open, the biggest tournament in the world.

Monday 12th July

I had a long lie this morning, which was nice.   I received a lot of "well done" texts which was great.   The support I received last week was incredible, it proves Scottish golf fans are the best in my opinion.   We headed into town to buy some dvds for this week, we also had lunch then the boys and I played 9 holes at Deeside.   I am currently in the gym sweating my a** off as I have put quite a bit of weight on recently.   I will then finalise my speech for tonight's Paul Lawrie Junior Golf Dinner, which is always a nerve racking experience for me.   We fly to Manchester in the morning to begin our preparation for the Open........can't wait!!

Scottish Open 4RD 68+67+72+70=277 (-7) T9

I had a very up and down round today, with 5 birdies, 2 bogeys and a double bogey, eventually to finish with a 70 and seven under par for the week.   Overall this week was a big step forward with lots of positives.   My Junior Golf Programme had a teaching bay in the tented  village where Stephen Craig gave roughly 80 lessons to juniors over the weekend.   The children each received a Paul Lawrie Junior Golf hat and shirt after their lesson.   It was great to see all the kids wearing them as I went around the course.   Barclays and the European Tour are keen for us to do more at next years event, which is great news!   My thanks to Stephen and also Murray and Lynda Carnie for being there to organise the lessons.

We have our Junior Golf dinner tomorrow night at the Marcliffe Hotel which is always a good night.

Scottish Open 3RD 68+67+72=207 (-6)

One over par 72 today but I played much better than that.   I only hit two poor shots all day making bogeys from both of them.   I probably played better than Thursday and Friday but putted poorly which was the difference but I'm still in there with a chance tomorrow, if I get it going early in my round.   I had fantastic support which was much appreciated.

Scottish Open 2RD 68+67=135 (-7)

I got off to a fast start this morning by birding my third hole and making an eagle at my fourth.   Again I played really solid to shoot a four under par round 67.   The only disappointment was a bogey at the 9th which was my final hole, it is very much a birdie hole.   Overall I played very well and I am in contention for the weekend.

Scottish Open 1RD 68 (-3)

I got off to a poor start with a 3 putt at my first hole.   I then missed four other short putts over my first nine holes to be out in level par.   I shot -3 on the back nine by playing some really solid golf, to finish with a round of 68.

Wednesday 9th July

I wasn't asked to play in the pro am today so we took the boys swimming this morning then headed up to the course at lunchtime.   I hit balls and did some short game work for a while.   I then walked round 9 holes with the boys at the Wee Demon at Cameron House.  This weekend in the tented village we are doing some junior coaching through the Junior Programme.   Each child will get a 15 minute lesson as well as a shirt with our junior programme logo on it.   Stevie Craig from the Kings Linnks will give the lessons.

Monday 7th July

I went to see Gillian Mitchell early this morning for my weekly crunch.   My back has been a bit stiff lately so it was good to see her.   We left the house at 9.30am to drive down to Loch Lomond for this weeks Scottish Open.   Peter Lloyd the former secretary of the Scottish PGA asked me to give a clinic and open the new clubhouse at Mount Ellon.   Peter is an old friend who looked after me when I first started playing PGA events.  My thanks to everyone at Mount Ellon for looking after us so well.   Marian and the boys are with me again this week which makes such a difference.

Clinic at Mount Ellon Golf Club

European Open 4RD 73+68+79+77=297 (+9)

It was pretty much the same as yesterday, very windy and tough to get the ball close to the hole.   I struggled again, my ball striking was very poor.   For some reason my short game was awful this weekend which is very unusual.   We are on the 3.40pm flight from Heathrow, I am looking forward to getting home.

European Open 3RD 73+68+79=220 (+4)

I drove the ball well today but I kept hitting poor iron shots.   It was very windy today.   I have probably never hit so many poor iron shots and chips as today.   Yesterday was a step forward but today was two steps back, but it happens and I've just got to get on with it, tomorrow is another day.

European Open 2RD 73+68=141 (-3)

I shot a 68 today to be 3 under for the tournament.  I kept it in play really well today which was the difference from yesterday.  I probably putted a little better too which is always nice.   I'm going to the range for a while and then the boys want to go swimming.

European Open 1RD 73 (+1)

I shot one over par 73 today.   It was a back start, a good middle and an awful finish.   I was 2 over after 6 holes without hitting a bad shot.   I three putted the 4th and the 6th.   I then played the next 6 holes in 4 under par and played the last 6 holes in three over par.   Yet again the hook shot that has troubled me for years was again the problem.   My attitude today was very suspect, I am finding it very difficult not to get frustrated which I know doesn't help but I do it anyway.   I broke my driver after hooking it into the water at the 18th, there is half of Kent on the right!!!   I was randonly selected for a drug test straight after my round, which involved producing a urine sample.   It was all done very professionally and only took 15 mins.

Wednesday 2nd July

I played in the pro am today at the London Club.   The course is in fantastic shape and it is a good layout.   The only problem I can see is if the wind blows the course is very open.   I tee off tomorrow at 1.10pm

Tuesday 1st July

I was down at the Carrick yesterday for the Great Scots Cup, myself and Claire Queen who is also attached to the Carrick gave a clinic.  Then Claire challenged everyone to a longest drive and I did nearest the pin at the par 3 14th.   It was good to catch up with Sir Alex Ferguson who was playing.   It was a very good day played in good fun.   My thanks go to everyone at the Carrick for looking after me all day.

Today we all flew down to London for this weeks European Open.   We are going sight seeing and then finishing off our day by going to see Joseph at the Adelphi Theatre.

Sir Alex and myself

Photo kindly supplied by Randolph Photography

French Open 4RD 73+71+70+74=288 (+4)

Today was a total kick in the teeth!!   I played good and holed nothing, I then played the last four holes in four over par.   I hit a perfect drive at the 15th and I had only 109 yards to the pin downwind, I hit a good lob wedge which pitched in the water.   At the 17th I hit my drive a yard into the left rough and made bogey.   The only poor shot I hit was off the 18th which went way right and I bogeyed it as well.   Overall this week I have played pretty good but I haven't got anything out of it.   At times it feels really close to being good.   My patience this week has at times been poor but Marian always says that patience has never been my middle name.   I'm now in a taxi heading for the airport to try and catch the 3.30pm flight direct to Aberdeen.

French Open 3RD 73+71+70=214 (+1)

I shot 70 today and I was 2 under after 10 holes and cruising but then hit two poor shots.   One at the 11th with an eight iron and one at the 13th with a three wood.   I then made eagle at the 14th, it's just a pity I dropped a shot at the 18th hole.   Overall 1 under was a decent effort because the pins were tucked away.   It's off to the range now to see if I can stop pulling the woods.

French Open 2RD 73+71=144 (+2)

There was quite a bit more wind today, so 71 was a decent effort but it should have been a few shots less.   I only hit 2 shots off line all day but got severely punished.   They cost me a double bogey at my 12th and a bogey at my 13th, apart from that I hit it really good.   I holed very little but I felt I putted ok.

French Open 1RD 73 (+2)

Two over par 73 today with a double bogey at the last.   I made the basic mistake of following an error with another error.   I actually played ok and I had quite a few chances but holed very little.   I hit a lot of pulls with the woods today so I'm off to the range to hit some.

Tuesday 24th June

I hit balls this morning from 7 till 9 then I had to go to the nurse again to get my right ear syringed, it's been playing up lately.   I then popped into town to buy some dvds for the next few weeks and then home to pack the suitcase for my 5pm flight to Paris.  The French Open is played at the National Club which is a great course and one of my favourites on tour.

I read in tonights evening express that Sean Connery agrees with Colin Montgomerie about the state of Scottish golf.   It's a pity these guys don't do something about it....it's easy to criticize.

Monday 23rd June

I got home on Saturday morning just in time for Craigs FDS end of season golf outing at Aspire.   All the team and a few parents played 9 holes and then we had a BBQ and presentations.

I was out at Meldrum early seeing Neil this morning for a couple of hours and then I headed to Kemnay to play in their centenary pro am.   I played very nicely to shoot 66 which won.   My team... Alan Reid, Ross Blackadder and Philip McLean also won so it was a great day all round.   My thanks to them and to Neil Marr for caddying for me.   I really enjoyed the course which has changed so much since I was a junior memeber there.   Well done to the pro David Brown for putting on a fantastic day.

BMW 2RD 74+71=145 (+1) MC

I shot 71 today and probably played a little better than that but I hit some poor shots at the wrong time.   The cut is looking like 1 under par.   The greens were pretty poor this afternoon, they were soft so there were loads of heel marks which makes it really difficult to roll the ball properly.   Andy, my caddie thinks it was more mental this week especially as I shot 64 in the pro am and I've ripped it on the range all week.   I want to be a top player so much that sometimes I try too hard and it hurts me instead of helping me.   I am unable to get home tonight so I'll stay in London overnight and fly up to Aberdeen in the morning.

BMW 1RD 74 (+2)

I shot 74 today without doing an awful lot wrong.   I struggled a bit with the driver on my front nine but nothing to bad.   I holed absolutely nothing on the greens, I must have used them all yesterday.   The course is much tougher than it used to be but 2 over is a poor effort as there are loads of chances.   I hit a couple of buckets of balls after my round, working with the gloves under my armpits, trying to stay connected.   It's going really well on the range, I just need to take it onto the course but even with 2 over today there are signs of improvement.   I was surprised how I putted today, I wasn't expecting that after yesterday.

Wednesday 18th June

I played in the pro am this morning and hit the ball really good, making 10 birdies.   Today was probably the best I have putted for years.   The course is in fantastic condition, especially the greens.   There is a good field here this week which is great for the sponsors....BMW.   They are a big supporter of the Tour these days.   I play at 7.50am tomorrow.

Tuesday 17th June

I flew from Aberdeen at 9.30am to Munich via Heathrow for this weeks BMW International Open which is a long running and established event.   I managed to catch the end of the US Open play off yesterday and I thought Tiger was hugely impressive winning with one good leg.   He was obviously in a lot of pain.   You can't teach desire, that comes from within and he has it by the truck load.   I wouldn't be surprised to see him taking some time off to get his knee fixed.   Hopefully we will see him at the Open in July.

Monday 16th June

I saw Neil this morning, we hit balls for an hour then played 9 holes.   I pretty much had the weekend off so the first half hour wasn't pretty but I hit it good when the old bones got going.   I had my weekly appointment with Gillian Mitchell "the cruncher" then I headed out to Banchory for the Scottish Schools Championship which we are the main sponsor of this year.   The weather was fantastic which makes such a difference.   The event was very well run by the SSGA.   I managed to see quite a bit of golf, both by the boys and the girls, where I was very impressed by what I saw.   The girls winner, Kelsey McDonald gave a fantastic speech at the prize giving, thanking everyone involved.   It was a very polished and mature performance by Kelsey which is always a very difficult thing to do in front of so many people.   Well done Kelsey!!   It was nice being back at Banchory where of course it all began for me.   It was great to catch up with some of the members.

Sunday 15th June

Marian and I were at our next door neighbours 50th birthday party last night which was really good fun.   This afternoon we walked round with Michael at Deeside, he was playing in one of our Junior Golf Flag Events.   He played really well and managed to hole out at the 9th with his 36 shots to win his age group.

Wednesday 11th June

I played 9 holes with two of my Foundation Team members, Ross Cameron and Philip McLean.   Philip did something I have never seen before, on the 1st fairway he turned his ball slightly to the side.   When I asked him if it was preferred lies he said "no, it was to save the line on the ball from getting smaudged when he hit it"  the reason being he hadn't brought his marker pen.   Bearing in mind we always play for money......unbelievable!!   I had a coffee and a chat with the boys afterwards and I explained as it was the last time we played, it was my short game that was the difference.   I also asked them, when they are chipping or pitching were they trying to get the ball close or hole it?   They both sid they were trying to get it close.   I always try to hole it, the reason being, if your target is 3 feet and you hit a poor shot you are going to be 10 feet away.   If your target is the hole and you miss hit it you're going to be 3 or 4 feet.   No matter what the shot or lie I have, I always try to hole it.

Monday 9th June

I hit balls for a couple of hours this morning with Neil and absolutely ripped them, it's really starting to feel comfortable.   Last week was very close to being good, it's such a fine line between 40th and top 5.   In the afternoon I was out at Banchory to have some pictures taken for The Paul Lawrie Scottish School Championship which takes place on Monday 16th June.   The boys will play at Inchmarlo Golf Club and the Girls play at Banchory Golf Club.

Good luck to my pal Alastair Forsyth who is playing in his first US Open this week.

Austria Open 3RD 68+69+70=207 (-6)

I had a strange day today, I played ok but just couldn't get going.   I hit a lot of good shots but also some poor ones which I haven't done until today.   I probably tried too hard, I hit the ball great while warning up and I guess I was expecting more than I got.   Overall this week I drove the ball excellant but struggled to score, I had loads of birdie chances but just couldn't convert them.   I have next week off where I plan to continue the hard work of late.

Austria Open 2RD 68+69=137 (-5)

Today was pretty similar to yesterday, I hit the ball well and had loads of chances but only shot 2 under par to be 5 under overall.   There was no wind today and the greens are so pure you expect to make lots of birdies.   I have hit a lot of balls this week with gloves under each arm trying to get my arms closer to my body during the swing.   I have certainly driven the ball better so far and I will go and work on it again this afternoon.

Austria Open 1RD 68 (-3)

Even though I shot 3 under par today, I felt I left quite a few shots out on the course.   I played very well however I made a poor bogey at the 18th.   I was going into the green with a 3 iron and thinned it a bit and it went into the water.   Overall it should have been lower.    The course is awesome and it's one of the best I've played, apparently Doug Carrick designed it.   He also designed The Carrick at Loch Lomond.

Austria Open

There was no play today at all, it rained heavily from about 3am this morning right through until lunchtime.   I went to the gym in the morning and then had lunch with Stevie Gallacher and Stevie O Hara.   I watched an awful lot of dvds in the afternoon.   It hasn't rained now since 1pm so it should be ok for tomorrow.

Wednesday 4th June

Thunder and lightening meant the pro am was cancelled for the second week in a row.   I had only played 6 holes when the siren went.   Andy and I were going to walk the rest but because of the lightening we decided against it.   The holes I played were fantastic and the course is in great condition, especially the greens.   I play tomorrow at 1.05pm.

Tuesday 3rd June

My alarm clock was pleading for mercy this morning as it went off at 6am again.   I met Neil at 7am at Meldrum where we warmed up then played 9 holes.   It was then home for a quick change and off to the airport to catch the 11.55am flight to Heathrow then on to Vienna for the Austrian Open.   We arrived in a downpour, it probably hasn't rained here for months but the tour is in town this week!!   I have heard so many good reports about the course, I'm really looking forward to seeing it tomorrow.

Monday 2nd June

I played 9 holes today with David Law, Kris Nicol and Philip McLean, I really enjoy passing on what I've learnt over the years.   I had a chat to Philip about his DQ at the Scottish Strokeplay yesterday, he held his hands up and said he made a mistake and signed for a wrong score.   It happens but I bet he never does it again.   It's a pity because he would have finished in third place which would have been a good finish for him but at least he's on the right road.   I always play them for a fiver and so far the old pro is undefeated.

Sunday 1st June

I was on the range early again this morning........I better watch out or people will start thinking I actually work for a living.   I have spent a fair bit  of time this weekend working on coming across the ball more on the downswing which stops the club getting behind me causing inconsistency.   It feels great, I just need to transfer it to the course.  

Michael's FDS team had their end of season party today.   They went tubing out at the Alford Dry Ski Slope, we all had a great time.   Congratulations to all the players and coaches for a very good season.

Saturday 31st May

I managed to fly home last night on Eastern Airways, missing cuts is never good but it's worse when you don't get home straight away.   I was out at Meldrum at 6.45am hitting balls for a few hours then in the afternoon we were all at Michael's Sports Day at Countesswells.   Michael had a 1st, 2nd and 3rd in his races.   There was a good turnout and no rain which is always good.

Wales Open 2RD 70+73=143 (+1)

A very disappointing 2 over par 73 today and again like yesterday I really struggled to find enough fariways.   I only hit 5 each day which you can't do and expect to score.   This week again I have hit the ball great on the range and struggled on the course.   I thought after playing good last weekend at Wentworth that I was making progress, so this week was very frustrating.

Wales Open 1RD 70 (-1)

There was 1hr 35min delay today because of fog but the course was remarkably dry considering the rain we had yesterday.   I finished with a 70 one under par which was slightly disappointing as I played the last four holes in one over par from good positions at each hole.   The greens were poor this afternoon and I certainly missed my fair share.   I have an early start tomorrow at 7.35am.....ouch!

Wednesday 28th May

We only played 7 holes in the pro am this morning because of the weather, every fairway was pretty much under water and the whole pro am had to be cancelled which is a pity because the same happened here last year.   Andy and I walked the rest of the course and I think Ross McMurray and European Golf Design have done a good job on the new holes.   I tee off tomorrow at 12.25pm.

Tuesday 27th May

I was out at Meldrum hitting balls at 6.45am yesterday morning......I don't know why people think I have no desire left and that I am happy with my world ranking position.

I flew to Bristol at lunchtime, heading for the Celtic Manor Wales Open.   This week we are playing on the 2010 Ryder Cup course.   I hit balls and worked on my short game all afternoon and I will have a good look at the course in the pro am tomorrow.

BMW PGA Championship 4RD 72+73+70+69=284 (-4) T22

I got off to a bad start today with bogey bogey and really without hitting any poor shots.   It was raining quite heavily in spells early on but the weather cleared up and it was actually really nice.   I managed to stay patient after my start and played really good to shoot a 69 to finish on four under par which finished 22nd.   It's a real pity about my finish on Friday as I would have been in contention to win but overall it's a decent week to build on.

BMW PGA Championship 3RD 72+73+70=215 (-1)

I stayed on the range for ages last night mainly hitting 3 woods and drivers as I really struggled the last few holes yesterday.   Today was much better, I drove the ball great all day and shot 70 two under par which was a good score because it was very windy.   I played with Goosen which felt like I was playing by myself because he says very little on the way round.   The tour asked me to pop into the sponsors lounge after my round for a question and answer session which was good fun and went well.

BMW PGA Championship 2RD 72+73=145 (+1)

I had a 73 today but it was looking a whole lot better with 6 holes to go.   I was four under par on the 13th tee but unfortunately hooked it most of the way home.   I went to the range after my round and of course never hit a bad shot, I just stood there and ripped it for an hour and a half.   The positive thing is that for 12 holes today it was awesome stuff, so I can't be far away.

BMW PGA Championship 1RD 72 (LVL)

I shot a level par 72 today which was a very good score considering the way I hit the ball off the tee.   The highlight of the day was an eagle 3 at the 17th hole, I hit a 3 iron to 12 feet and knocked in the putt.   I went back to my two ball putter today which felt a bit better.   The course is playing tough and it's hard to get the ball close to the pins.

Wednesday 21st May

This week is the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth which is one of our biggest events.   The course is in fantastic condition as always but because of the dry weather the course is running quite fast and bouncy.   I flew down on Tuesday morning and spent all afternoon hitting balls, chipping and putting.   I will watch the Champions League Final tonight.......Come on Fergie!!

Saturday 17th May

Congratulations to Michelle Thompson from Ellon who won the Scottish Women's Amateur Golf Championship at Lossiemouth.   Michelle is a member of the Paul Lawrie Foundation Team.   Michelle has also the Curtis Cup to look forward to at the end of the month.   Well done Michelle

Irish Open 2RD 76+77=153 (+9)

I played awful today and I really struggled off the tee.   I hit the ball low and left at pretty much every hole.   I finished nine over for the two days which in incredible because I hit it really good the two weeks I spent at home.  Some of the players have critisized the course set up this week, saying it's too tough.   I totally disagree and I thought this week was a really good test of golf.   I much prefer this to the twenty odd under par which wins most weeks.   I think Europe would have more Major winners if the courses were set up like the one here at Ardare Manor.

I can only get as far as Gatwick tonight and I'll fly up to Aberdeen tomorrow morning.

Irish Open 1RD 76 (+4)

I really struggled with my driver, hitting only five fairways and you can't afford to do that here because the rough is very punishing.    I got a penalty shot at the 9th for standing on my ball, I was in 3 foot high rough and couldn't see the ball but it makes no difference..... that's a terrible rule in my opinion.   Scoring is high so a decent day tomorrow will get us back in it.

Wednesday 14th May

I played in the pro am this morning with three very nice Irish lads.   We had a really good laugh all the way round.   The course is playing tough especially if you miss the fariways and the greens are running quite fast.   I struggled a bit today with the driver, so I spent quite a bit of time of the range afterwards.  

It was great to read that Lee Miller will be staying at Pittodrie for a least two more years.

Tuesday 13th May

My flight to Shannon was delayed and I didn't get to my room until 2am this morning.   I hit balls and then played 9 holes, the course is in excellant condition and it's a really good layout.   The weather was awesome today and it is forecast to continue.   I am staying in the townhouses which are very nice.

Monday 12th May

I was out to see Neil this morning, we played the back nine with one ball treating it like a proper round at a tournment.   I then hit some balls afterwards simply working on my change over and rhythm.   I fly from Aberdeen to Gatwick at 5pm and then onto Shannon for the Irish Open at Ardare Manor which is very nice.

Saturday 10th May

Marian and I had a table last night at the Gothenburg Greats dinner at the AECC.    It was a fantastic evening which we all really enjoyed.   It was great to see the whole team together again.   I was in Gothenburg the night Aberdeen won the cup winners cup and it was a night I will never forget.   Alan Reid and I were like little school boys going round getting all their autographs.   It was a pity Fergie wasn't there but he sent a very nice video message.

Friday 9th May

I left the house at 6.30am to drive down to Forestmill near Alloa to look at a piece of ground that the Muir Group own.   They have owned it for about 6 years and have plans to build houses and a golf course.   The land is fantastic with a lot of mature trees and a huge amount of potential.   I then drove straight home and headed out to see Neil from 3pm to 4pm, we worked on coming across the ball a bit more on the downswing as the club was starting to get behind me slightly which is an old habit of mine.

Thursday 8th May

I played at Peterculter this morning in a First Group golf day, again the weather was amazing.   I thought the course was in excellant condition.   My thanks go to all the staff for making it an enjoyable day.   It was also nice to catch up with the pro Dean Vannet who I worked with at Banchory.    Craig and Michael had a training session with the FDS under 9 and 13 squads in the evening which Sone Aluko came along to.   All the boys really enjoyed the experience and Sone was kind enough to answer their questions and sign autographs.

First Group Golf Day - Peterculter GC

Photograph - Courtesy of Simon Price/Firstpix

Wednesday 7th May

I played at Inchmarlo this morning with Jockie and Alan Lawrence from FDS and Dave McGinlay from Pitchside Sports, we had a great day and the weather was superb.   It was my first time on the Laird's course and it's very nice with some fantastic holes.   I jumped in the car to drive home after our game to find my battery was as flat as a pancake.   Luckily Craig Dempsters (one of the professionals at Inchmarlo) father has a garage in Banchory and he very kindly came out and got me going.  

Thursday 1st May

I have had a busy few days working with Neil in the mornings and doing short game at the house in the afternoons.   It is Craig's 13th birthday today, where has the time gone?   He has a game for FDS tonight which I will get along to, so I'm looking forward to that.

Tuesday 29th April

I arrived home on Monday morning via Hong Kong, the hardest thing about playing in Asia is the journey home, it seems to take forever.   I was out seeing Neil Marr this morning, he spotted the problem with irons straight away, the club was too much on the outside on the backswing which also restricted my turn.   It felt better straight away!!

BMW Asian Open 4RD 75+72+71+73=291 (+3)

I played ok today in spells but made some silly bogeys.   It was quite windy making it really difficult to get the ball anywhere near the pins, so I would imagine scoring would be higher.   I bogeyed the 18th for the second day in a row which is frustrating because you can never get it back.   Overall the two weeks have been very disappointing as far as ball striking goes but I've done well at getting it around in a decent number.   Both weeks the courses have been brilliant, I fly home tonight via Hong Kong getting into Aberdeen on Monday morning.   I now have two weeks at home before the Irish Open.

BMW Asian Open 3RD 75+72+71=218 (+2)

Today was what the game of golf is all about.   I played awful all day but hung in there really well, then hit a few decent shots at the end to shoot under par.   It wasn't pretty but we got the job done the best we could.   It was amazing because we played with Jacquelin who hit the ball really good but shot two over par.   There was hardly any wind today and quite a bit hotter, a real nice day.   These two weeks I have hit the ball great on the range but struggled on the course, which is the first time I have been that way for quite a while.   My congratulations go to BMW who always lay on a fantastic tournament especially the coutesy cars.   However I am looking forward to getting home.

BMW Asian Open 2RD 75+72=147 (+3)

It was very windy and tough today and I got it to 3 under for the round with 8 holes to play but I hit some awful shots coming in.   My irons were dreadful but the good news was my short game was very good which meant I will be around for the weekend.   Scoring was much higher today because of the conditions.  I played with Mark Brown from New Zealand who is by far the best player I have played with in some time, beautiful swing and a very good ball striker.   Look out for him!

BMW Asian Open 1RD 75 (+3)

I struggled with my irons and missed some short putts today.   I bogeyed the last two holes which was a pity because I was doing well at keeping the score down.   I spent quite a while on the range aferwards trying to find something.   The good news is there's always tomorrow.

Wednesday 23rd April

I played in the pro am this morning at 8.10am, it was breezy all day which made it tough.  I tee off tomorrow at 12.20pm and as ever I am fully prepared and ready to go.

Tuesday 22nd April

I played 18 holes early this morning, the course is in great condition again, just like last week.   It is quite long with firms greens.   I have been working on my leg action the last two days and it feels much better.   The weather has been quite poor again and it has rained most of today.   We are staying pretty much in the middle of Shanghai which is handy for restaurants and shops.   I must say both weeks the courses have been really good and we have been looked after really well.

Monday 21st April

My plan for today was to take it easy and have a day off but I woke up early and thought I would head up to the course for a couple of hours practise.   I wasn't happy with my iron play last week so I wanted to get in some extra time on it.   I will play the course tomorrow and Wednesday in the pro am.

Volvo China Open 4RD 71+75+72+75=293 (+5)

It poured rain all day, the course has been tough enough but today it was brutal.   I played pretty good, again I drove the ball awesome.   My driving this week could be the best ever which is very positive.   I fly to Shanghai tonight for the BMW Asian Open next week.

Volvo China Open 3RD 71+75+72=218 (+2)

I shot level par today and again I drove the ball great, my short game was sharp but my irons were very poor.   I played with John Bickerton who is always great to play with, we had a good laugh on the way round.   The course was again pretty tough with the greens being really firm making it difficult to get the ball close, but the question is can the Dons win at Parkhead back to back???

Volvo China Open 2RD 71+75=146 (+2)

My short game was fantastic today and it's a good job because my irons shots were very very poor.   My round of 75 was a pretty good effort considering the way I played.   The course was much tougher today with the greens very firm with some tricky pin positions.   I think I got my irons sorted out on the range after my round.

Volvo China Open 1RD 71 (-1)

I finished today on one under par 71, I played ok but my short game was quite poor.   I got to 3 under par but struggled a bit coming in.   The greens are quite firm so it's difficult to get the ball close.   Overall one under is not too bad but I felt it should have been a few less today.

Tuesday 15th April

I arrive in Beijing yesterday morning and I made the error of sleeping to long in the afternoon which meant I was wide awake at 2.30am this morning.   It worked out pretty well actually because I was finshed 18 holes by 10.30am.   The course this week is pretty good, it's quite long with small slopey greens and it's in good condition so it shoud be a good test of golf.   Andrew Coltart was on my flight and I had dinner with him last night and played 9 holes with him today and I lost count the number of times  he mentioned the Queen of the South game!!

Saturday 12th April

We were all down at Hampden for the semi final against Queen of the South, it wasn't the result we were after but Queens played well and probably deserved their victory.   Good luck to them in the final.   Andrew Coltart is a Queen of the South fan so you can imagine the texts and calls I've had.

It's back to work tomorrow as I fly to China for 2 events, practise has gone well so I am looking forward to it.

Thursday 10th April

I had two quick radio interviews this morning, one with Capitol and the other with Alan Brazil at Talk Sport to preview the Masters which starts today.   Let's hope all the hard work I've been doing starts to pay off because I'd love to be playing in all the Majors again.

I've been out at Meldrum every morning this week which has gone really well.   We had a piece of carpet fitted to my indoor putting green which has made it much smoother and quicker, so I have been busy in the afternoons hitting loads of putts.   My putting in Spain was much improved which has boosted my confidence with the blade.    I am heading down to Glasgow for the Scottish Cup semi final on Saturday lunchtime.   It should be a good occasion.   I head off to China on Sunday for two tournaments which I am really looking forward too.

Monday 7th April

Last week I spent a lot of time with Craig and Michael playing football and golf which was great fun.   I also managed to get some practise done and my game feels in great shape.   Marian, the boys and I were down in Ayr over the weekend for a football festival with the FDS under 9s and under 13s squads.   The boys put in a great deal of effort and we all had a fantastic time.   We were all staying in caravans at Haven Craig Tara which was very close to the pitches but the very very cold at night.

Andalucia 78+66+73+68=285 (-3)

I played good again today, pretty much the same as yesterday.   I shot 4 under par and I had plenty of chances.   It's a pity about my back nine yesterday because after Thursday I have played really well and actually holed my fair share of putts.   I think the whole hotel must have heard me shouting when Aberdeen scored their 4th goal, it should be an exciting game against Falkirk.

Andalucia 78+66+73=217 (+1)

I had a very strange day today!   I was 4 under after 12 holes having played really well and rolling it great on the greens.  Then I played the last six holes in 5 over par, missing short putts on five of them.   Who said "It's a funny old game"   My finish came from nowhere which was very frustrating,  however it was windy today which made club selection tricky and we can only try again tomorrow.  

Come on the Dons!!!

Andalucia 78+66=144 (LVL)

What a difference a day makes!!   I went to the range last night after my round, Andy had noticed I was moving off the ball on my backswing so that was my swing thought today.   I played beautifully and rolled in a few putts.   The wind was not so strong today, so I hope level par makes it for the weekend.

Wednesday 26th March

I had to withdraw from the pro am because of the flight delays yesterday, so this afternoon Andy and I walked the course.   It is quite short and tricky with small sloping greens.   There are a lot of holes that will play iron of the tee, but it's in good condition.   My back is still stiff but feels ok.

Tuesday 25th March

My flight to Heathrow this morning was delayed by two hours because of the weather.  When we eventually arrived in London we were held on the plane as one of the baggage handlers was involved in an accident and sadly died.   The delay meant I missed my connection to Malaga but my problems are nothing compared to someone losing their life, it's a real tragedy and I feel for his family.   I will now stay in London overnight and fly to Malaga in the morning.

Monday 24th March

I was in to see Gillian again tonight about my back.   It has improved quite a bit and as well as her usual treatment she also did trigger point acupuncture to my glutets medius, which is the first time I've had that done.   Here's hoping it works.   I'm going to fly to Spain tomorrow and give it a try and I will see how my back feels in the pro am.   I sent Alastair Forsyth a well done text last night, it was a great win for him, he's a good lad who works very hard at his game.

Saturday 22nd March

I had a rather uncomfortable flight home yesterday but I slept pretty well last night.   My back was very stiff again this morning and Marian had to help me on with my socks.   Gillian Mitchell managed to fit me in this morning, it was very painful but as always she got it moving and hopefully after I see her again on Monday night I should be ok for Spain next week.

Friday 21st March

I woke up this morning and couldn't get my socks on!!   My back hasn't been great since I arrived in Madeira but it was much worse this morning.   I went to see the physio when I arrived at the course and I had two attempts to hit balls on the range but I couldn't get through the ball at all.   Therefore I've had to withdraw which is very frustrating but all part of tour life.  

Madeira Island Open 1RD 76 (+4)

I played good today but my short game was awful.   I had 3 three putts and a 4 putt and I couldn't have putted any worse.   I hit the ball nicely which has been the story for quite some time.

Wednesday 19th March

What a fantastic result last night!   Aberdeen now have a great chance to get to the final, where anything can happen.   I played in the pro am this morning and in the afternoon I went to the gym.   I tee off tomorrow at 1.20pm

Tuesday 18th March

It was a little windy yesterday which made the landing into Funchal a little bumpy.   This morning I played with Gary Orr and Alastair Forsyth, the course is in very good condition.   Alastair holed everything and easily took the money!   Tonight we are going to eat early so we can watch the Aberdeen Celtic game at the Irish pub.   Come on the Dons!!!

Monday 17th March

We had a busy weekend of football....Michael played for his school team on Saturday and then on Sunday he had his first game on trial for the Aberdeen under 10s squad.   He really enjoyed it and did well.   Craig scored a hat trick on Sunday for his FDS under 13s team.   On Saturday we were all at Pittodrie for the Gretna game which had a very poor atmosphere, maybe because of the situation Gretna have found themselves in, I feel for all the players and staff.   We watched the CIS Cup Final, I felt for Dundee United who I thought deserved to win.   

I left the house early this morning to drive to Edinburgh airport for my flight to Madeira. 

Thursday 13th March

Mr Muir and I attended the Aberdeenshire Council's infrastucture services commitee meeting and I am delighted to say our project at Blairs received their approval.   To say I'm excited would be an under statement and the project is another step closer to my dream of having my first course design in Aberdeen.

Monday 10th March

My flight to South Africa was delayed by 3 hours, then as usual my clubs never arrived...it's not like British Airways is it?   The Canon golf day is taking place at the Pecon Wood Country Club, Peter Baker, Tony Johnstone and Jeremy Dale who is one the worlds best trick show artist are also here along with 70 Canon guests.

Sunday 9th March

We were all at Pittodrie this afternoon for the Scottish Cup game against Celtic.   There was a very poor crowd of only 10,900 which for a game against Celtic is quite disappointing and the fans who stayed away missed a great game.   The game finished one all with Celtic scoring very late on.    After the match I went straight to the airport to fly to Johannesburg overnight for a Canon company day on Tuesday.

"The Paul Lawrie Scottish Schools Championships"

The Paul Lawrie Foundation will sponsor the 2008 Scottish Schools Championships, which are scheduled to return to the N.E. of Scotland with the Boys Championship to be held over the course at Inchmarlo and the Girls Championship over the Banchory course, both Championships are to played on Monday 16th June.

Saturday 1st March

Yesterday, I met Robin Hiseman from European Golf Design (EGD) and Stuart Cruickshank from the Muir Group up at Blairs College for a walk around the land to see roughly where the golf holes might go.   It's the third time I've been up and the view gets better each time.   I was back this morning again at Blairs to speak to some press about the project.