Not buying into the hype

Darryl, Rockford, IL — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 15:27:48 GMT

I have a $40 no name driver I purchased from Wal-mart and I can hit it just as good as most people with name brand drivers. I hate paying for the big brand names, especially ones that are advertised by a celebrity or an athelete, just to further their lavish life style!

Not buying into the hype

John, New Jersey — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 16:02:11 GMT

Couldn't have said it better - "It’ll just make you look like someone who values someone else’s identity more than you value your own."

It's about time I've heard someone in the media say it like it is, and not simply stand in awe that is the "greatness of Tiger". As I understand it, nearly all (if not 100%) of Tiger's equipment that he personally plays cannot be purchased anywhere. Custom built clubs and balls and everything else. What you get off the Nike rack is not the same specifications that he plays. Only the logo is the same. Granted, we all probably couldn't PLAY with the clubs Tiger plays with, but that's not the point, is it? "Buy Nike clubs because its what Tiger plays" is what the commercials want you to think. And I'm not just picking on Tiger; I'll bet the same is true for Phil's equipment, and Ernie's and...

One other thing - if the new Gatorade drink was concocted for Tiger's sweat (whatever that means anyway), doesn't that mean it won't "work" for me? Unless, of course, my sweat is identical to Tiger's... but then, if it was, won't that mean I could hit a Nike driver as good as he can, too? :-)

Not buying into the hype

Cowabunga — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 16:09:18 GMT

Just read your article which was right on! I'm a big follower of Tiger but if the the new drink costs more I won't drink them either.

In general I don't buy anything that someone endorses because I don't want to further their lavish life styles. That goes for Pro sports too. Why should I fork out more than $20-30 to go to a major sporting event to support their life style? As a middle class person I just can't afford more than that so I just have to enjoy them on TV instead of live. And that goes for rock concerts too. Why should I fork out more than $20-30 for a concert to support their life style? Concerts can't be had for that amount so I just don't go. I'll listen to them on the radio or the CD if I want to listen more, but not the CD and live.

What amazes me is the atheletes/celebrities think we don't pay their enormous salaries, that the owners do. Wrong, we do! Golfers/Baseball/Football/Basketball players are paid by the enormous TV contracts, who are funded by advertisers, who are funded by me buying their products, and I have to pay more for the product because of these enormous contracts! It may be only a penny or two but that adds up over all of the products over the year. If I could I wouln't buy any product advertised by some high priced athelete/celebritie but that is not practical, there are just too many to keep track of.

Not buying into the hype

George L, Tampa Bay, FL — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 16:32:35 GMT

The reason most products work is because they are put through the extreme testing conditions of compitetion. Why do you think Honda is involved in Formula 1 racing and spends hundreds of millions of dollars to do so? - Do you think they really are going to sell a lot of super fast exotic cars? NO! They do it to try out new engines, new transmissions, etc. This stuff actually gets passed down to us lowly consumers, you know, the guy that just can't hit a straight drive until someone figured out how to place a Buick on the end of a carbon fiber shaft.

Golf (and most sports) are supposed to be recreation, I say any thing that can can make my choosen sport easier to participate in is a good thing. And, yes, sometimes I see a pro trying something new and I try, just like when I noticed a lot of players winning with the ProV1, I switched. I am sure PGA tour members do not get paid to play the ProV1 - right.

G.

Not buying into the hype

Chris, NC — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 17:05:40 GMT

FYI..all guys on tour have their drivers built especially for them, including the ones who play TaylorMade (and most are still paid by TaylorMade in some fashion). I have spent over 20 hours in various fitting sessions (on different monitors) and for me a Nike driver tested out to be the best. Nike's products have consistently gotten better over the years and in my opinion are on par with other manufacturers. But I do agree with the last part of you article, don't buy because X player endorses but because if fits yours swing/style the best. Where I don't agree is excluding manufacturers other than TaylorMade and Titleist as possible options, the Bridgestones,Cobra,Nike,Srixon,etc may end up fitting you the best.

FWIW...I also own a Callaway Driver(spare), Ping 3 wood, cobra hybrid, callway irons, ping wedges, and a taylormade putter. So I'm not biased toward one company or another like you. Handicap 2.5

Not buying into the hype

Todd Stiles, Elizabeth CO — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 17:20:02 GMT

Morning, Mike:
Good to see your 'wise and sage individual' persona alive and well. Keep them straight.

Not buying into the hype

Donald Love — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 17:54:43 GMT

I have to wear something. I have seen a picture of you and I have seen Tiger. I would rather look like him. Plus you always knock Tiger. Who are you. You are a nothing.

Not buying into the hype

Mike, Chino Hills, CA — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 18:11:56 GMT

I cannot agree with you more. - your comments are right on the mark.

Not buying into the hype

John — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 18:39:40 GMT

Actually in my opinion TaylorMade makes crappy drivers, can't hit one to save my life, but Callaway works best for me. I agree not to play a club just because someone thinks you should...go to the range and see what works best for you (weight and length matter more than name brand) but as for Gatorade and the non golf equipment, Gatorade is without a doubt the best replenishing fluid, drink grape flavor now so I will continue to do so every round (with or without tiger on the logo) and Nike created alot of new things with different types of material to assist in not sweating yourself to death on the course.....the others just followed suit so now it doesn't matter, but 3-4 years ago there was a difference.

Not buying into the hype

George J. Mitchell — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 18:54:21 GMT

Wow, you mean that mass marketers lie?

Lance Pharmstrong's LIVE WRONG was a big lie?
Michael Vick dead dog campaign?
Marion Jones empty denials?
Kobe's rape charges dropped after cash paid?
Michael Jordan's philandering and out-of-wedlock kids?
Baroid Bonds HR records?
Jason Giambi female hormones?
Tim Montgomery's speed?
Kelli White's white lie?

From Coke(Poweraide) to Pepsi/Gatorade) to Nike to doping denials---they all cheat and lie.

Not buying into the hype

Andy , columbus ohio — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 18:57:33 GMT

Mike , Taylor made is the #1 driver because they will pay players on a weekly basis, same with titelist golf balls. I only have the T-60 ignite fairway woods from nike in my bag and they are excellent. Nike makes good equipment and their chief club designer Tom Stites was a protege of Ben Hogan. The one little unknown fact is that the Bridgestone Corp actually makes the Nike One golf ball for nike !!! They have manufactured nike's golf bals to nike's specs since the Tour Accuracy and i can attest from ball testing and playing that the Nike Ball has always been better than the bridgestone ball or the prior top line precept ball that was out the same time as the tour accuracy

Not buying into the hype

barry arlington, texas — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 19:29:32 GMT

I disagree about the Nike driver which -- in my opinion -- turns a great driver of the ball into a really great driver of the ball if you have high swing speeds. If you're average or (like most players below average like me) with any driver, you will really stink it up with the Nike driver because it requires a really high swing speed to work well. But I've seen some of my better qualified buddies hit the driver and improve their game with it.

However, the point you miss about any pros clubs is that the stuff the pros play -- even the TaylorMade driver -- is no where near what they sell off the shelf to us regulars. Unless you are willing to pay truly obcene amounts of money for a real "custom" driver (which the pro gets for free) you're getting a really, really, expensive "one size fits all" driver.

As for the clothes, Nike shoes are nice but again obcenely priced, and I can find FootJoys for less and be just as comfortable (though not as fashionable.) Same for the shirts and pants.

The Nike ball is nice for everyone --including an average player like me -- though I like Titilst just as much and (for an average player) don't find a lot of difference (and I regress to MaxFli very often because of price.)

A great violin in the hands of someone who doesn't know how to play sounds like trash. A poor violin in the hands of Perlman sounds like a Strad. The secret is not in the tools but in the craftsman.

Not buying into the hype

L. Wiley, Los Angeles CA — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 21:25:22 GMT

You are soooo! Jealous it's embarassing, if you we're in the same position as the Greats in sports.... It's an opportunity, don't hate, I'm embarassed for you

Not buying into the hype

Pete Devitt, El Paso, TX — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 21:42:38 GMT

What do care how I send my money. If I want buy a Red Sox cap, it's not that think I'll ever play for the Sox it's because I want to wear it. The same thing with Nike, Taylor Made etc. I am old enough to remember when Chuck Taylor Allstars were the sneaker of choice, people spend their money on brand name item who cares.

Not buying into the hype

Frederick Park — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 21:44:13 GMT

Mike:

Surely you do not think that TaylorMade and Titleist do not pay players to use their equipment. Your objection must one of degree as Titleist and TaylorMade pay oodles of money to many players. Your objection must that that marketing money to one player can be in excess, but money to many, regardless of the total, equates to the equipment being the best. I agree that people should use equipment that actually works. I just totally disagree with you that TaylorMade and Titleist would have their market share with amateurs and pros alike without the endorsements and costs thereof. You seem to think that touring pros use Titleist and Taylormade without regard to the money they are paid to use the products, and only consider that they are the "best". I see that the TaylorMade and Titleist marking money to the pros certainly has worked in your case.

Best wishes,
Fred

Not buying into the hype

Mr. Jungles, Downtown, Canada — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 21:46:58 GMT

Your talkin' CRAZY TALK!

Not buying into the hype

Bill Henderson — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 22:00:54 GMT

Actually, the NIKE driver is a very sweet club. Every time I hit it in the simulator, the ball went straight as an arrow. But I stuck with buying TaylorMade because of the name brand... go figure. But all my apparel is still Nike. And I've worn Nike for all sports, and it has given me extra confidence on the court or wherever, instead of just wearing no name stuff. Pretending I'm MJ is a lot easier with Nike stuff on than with no name run of the mill clothing. I know it costs more to buy Nike, but it's worth it.

Not buying into the hype

Mac McClendon, Colorado Springs, CO — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 23:46:35 GMT

You said, "The most popular driver on Tour is TaylorMade, and the most popular ball is the Titleist Pro V1. The reason for that is that those are the best of their kind."
I would beg to differ on the accuracy of that statement....particularly on the driver but I'm guessing it applies to both. How many professionals play TaylorMade drivers because of endorsement contracts? Better yet, how many professionals play that brand of driver without endorsement incentive or requirement? I believe it was a Golf Digest article where it was stated that more than one professional said they would be playing the Cleveland HiBore if not already under endorsement contract for another brand. No doubt the Titleist ProV is an excellent ball. However, at the professional level I would ask the same question, how many play Titleist because of incentives? I'm your typical weekend hacker and I'm continually amazed at how many people at my ability level and below play Titleist ProV balls. Why? Because it makes them feel like a better player in that their favorite pro plays them. Not at all because they're the best of their kind. While you may choose to not drink Gatorade Tiger, there will be millions that will for the same reasons amateurs play Titleist ProVs.

Not buying into the hype

Tim Coyne — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 00:28:13 GMT

Great column on Tiger and his new Gatorade contract. I couldn't believe it when I saw a Gillette razor TV ad last week featuring Tiger, Roger Federer and Thierry Henry, the soccer player. (And yes, I had to look it up.) I started thinking, "Is there anything Tiger won't shill?" Then I saw a story in the paper about Gatorade Tiger. I guess the answer to my question is NO. Jeez, the guy makes millions doing his job, plus millions more from Nike, Buick and AmEx. How many millions are enough, Tiger? Please stop now.

BTW, I couldn't agree more about the idiocy of advertising and the weakminded people who will buy anything because their favorite athlete or movie star endorses it. And TaylorMade drivers and Pro V1 balls are the best!

Not buying into the hype

D Buchan — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 04:28:59 GMT

No disrespect, but you look like you are around 60+ years old. Advertisers don't care about you - the young people - ages 10 - 35 or so - they'll buy it. You should have saved this column and used your time to write something that would make sense.

Not buying into the hype

gofomo — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 06:03:54 GMT

Hey Mike, great comments and I agree with your bottom line totally. As a former teaching pro I always told students to purchase what works for them and don't worry about what the best are playing because all of their clubs are custom, suited specifically for them. Only one item of contention with your column, other players are paid to play the other products out there also, just not as much as Tiger. I state this just we are comparing apples to apples. Thanks again for the great column.

Not buying into the hype

Jerry Kloehr, Ramstein, Germany — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 06:47:57 GMT

Now there is some sound logic; are you kidding me? "If you want to hit like the pros, you’d be a lot better off going to a tournament and looking at what all the players – the bulk of them on Tour – who you don’t often see on the leaderboard play." If these guys aren't on the leaderboard very often, how can their equipment be that much better. Anyone naive enough to think those pros aren't getting contract deals, albeit much less lucrative than Tiger's, and free custom tuned equipment is living in a dream world. All players have endorsement deals with equipment manufacturers (clubs, balls, etc). Some of the caddies even get contracts to wear the companies logos. For my money, I WILL look at the leaderboards and the equipment these players use, then take a realistic approach and test the equipment before buying it. Perhaps the Nike driver is the best for me; maybe it's Taylor Made; I have to discover it for myself BEFORE I buy it. I would also add that instead of paying $500 for a driver, most average golfers would be much better off spending some of that money on lessons using less expensive, professionally fitted clubs. As with anything in life, a little research and time at a pro shop testing their "demos" will pay huge dividends on the score card. If you're a hacker, the best and most expensive equipment in the world won't make a difference and neither will the Gatorade you drink. Take some lessons (even Tiger gets lessons) and have a glass of water, but don't fault Tiger for doing what anyone in his situation would do given the opportunity.

Not buying into the hype

Kathy — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 12:17:30 GMT

Sounds like you are just a "hater". There is no way that you...if in the position to market yourself and your name wouldn't do the exact same thing.

Not buying into the hype

M. Shindledecker, Ohio — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 12:36:13 GMT

And that makes him different from which other celebrity, sports or otherwise, to whom a company has offered big bucks to sponser their product? Do you honestly know anyone who has ever turned down an offer?
My reason for commenting(for the first time ever in my life)to your 'unique slant' is: "Why single out Tiger and not list the names of several players who have taken advantage of the outrageous offers of businesses?" (Oops, I forgot that you mentioned Michael Jordan's name once.) Why not just direct your comments to the companies that make these outlandish offers to celebrities?

If a person is foolish enough to buy a product for the single reason that a celebrity endorses it, that person deserves to be 'taken'. One really doesn't require a college education to use one's brain and common sense.

Not buying into the hype

Tim Scales — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 13:06:41 GMT

Mike

You are one of the best out there in the game,but please Mike don't break all of the kids hearts out there in the game like minds at 48yrs who think like a kids when we see Tiger Woods when he at work.Hey I even agree with you on all of this less important hype.But he is THE MAN and the world loves him,and I can tell you also watch him at work on the bset day of the week Sunday.

Thanks......Mike

Not buying into the hype

D. L. King, Bradenton, FL — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 13:41:50 GMT

Hey Mike,

You need to do some more research. Sorry to disappoint you, but tour pros ARE paid to play Taylor Made drivers. Every tour player who uses their driver is entered into a competition that pays off three times a year according to points earned from tournament finishes. That's in addition to any endorsement deals the player may have with the company. Titleist also pays tour pros to use its balls and gloves. Taylor Made and Titleist have excellent products, but their popularity on tour is also due to paying for it.

ShivasTx

Not buying into the hype

Mike McAllister, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 14:51:44 GMT

Amen Mike,

Having been a dedicated Gatorade customer for years, your article has just convinced me to investigate the alternatives.

Not buying into the hype

SD, Baltimore, MD — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 14:56:37 GMT

Isn't this just the way things are done, it or not he is very good at what he does and if products want to pay to endorse their product so be it. Isn't is up to the consumer to buy in or not. Look at Nike and Michael Jordan, even after he has retired Tennis Shoes with his names attached sell of of stores before they even go one sale.

Not buying into the hype

John Femenia, Savannah GA. — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 16:17:17 GMT

Very interesting article. Hmmm, I have never seen Consumer Report Magazine rate golf drivers, golf irons, golf balls, golf shoes, golf bags or sport drinks. Maybe your article will change that.
Thanks, John in Savannah GA

Not buying into the hype

Carolyn Cunningham,Port st Lucie, Fl — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 18:05:54 GMT

Stop whining! Who cares if you do not buy the drink? Tiger will get paid anyway!

Not buying into the hype

V. Lane, Inglewood, CA — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 18:16:33 GMT

I'm a fan of Tiger Woods, but not Gatorade. And no amount of publicity or marketing is going to change that fact. I drink Vitamin Water. Sorry Tiger!

Not buying into the hype

John, Philadelphia, PA — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 19:17:21 GMT

Though I do not play with Nike Clubs, it is insulting for you to make pyschological evaluations of golfers who choose to wear Nike apparrel. Frankly, Nike has a great line, as do others. It has nothing to do with "lack of personal identity". That is absolutely ridiculous. You sound like you have an agenda and have a hang up. This will be the last article of yours that I read.

Not buying into the hype

Prasanna,Toronto,Ontario — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 19:17:34 GMT

Hi Mike:
That was Gatorade refreshingly FUNNY!. I laughed like I have never had in a long time and some simple truths as well.

thanks
Prasanna

Not buying into the hype

Robinson — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 19:36:33 GMT

Maybe those same people who buy Nike or no different than those people who read like certain sports writters because they are who they are not that they are any better than another sports writer. My point is this. If people buy the product that Tiger respresent maybe it's because they just want too, simple as that. Tiger makes money because people make money off his Talent. That is life in this white man world and as long as a white man is getting rich from it nothing is written are said. It blows my mind that we still live in such a small world that people we think are smart show you just how dumb they really are.

Not buying into the hype

Joe Peel, Albuquerque, NM — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 20:02:20 GMT

You are correct that Tiger plays and wears what he does because he is paid too. Wearing or playing a brand because any pro does will never help your game. The clubs they advertise and not the clubs you can buy at your local pro shop, and if they were they would much too stiff, or/and heavy for an average golfer to play. \

I do take a small exception to the comment about watching what the lesser players are playing. Taylor Made, Titleist, and others give day-money to lesser players to play their equipment. A lesser pro is probably making $1000 - 2000 a week to play that Taylor Made, Sixron, Titleist, etc.
To my knowledge only Ping does not pay players big sums of money to play their equipment. They give players clubs, fit them, and send them out. At the end of the year they share in a Pot of money, dividing the money dependent upon how successful they were for the year.

Not buying into the hype

Jim C Boynton Beach, Fl. — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 20:38:30 GMT

I agree. Going all the way back to the gator on shirts- I would cut it off- I ruined at least two shirts because I did a poor job of cutting it off. I cut the name off Docker's. I don't buy shirts that have ads on them anymore. When I buy a car I immediately take the dealers license plate cover off. I don't get paid for wearing their ads so I'm not wearing them.

Not buying into the hype

Rudy from Pa — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 00:01:33 GMT

Iam sure this was written because of pure jealousy and the writter never mentioned about Jack or other Golfers because they are not making the sane cash as Tiger.

So, get a dam life and be happy Tiger is not some stupid professional like Vicks eyc... Also, I think you should not be paid nor have readers for the rubbish you put in this article!

Tiger go for what you knkow and deserve as no one gave it to you on any silver platter! Let's see what the writter will say once Tiger becomes the firt Golf Billionaire!

RR

Not buying into the hype

Rich Anderson, Edmond, OK — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 02:15:14 GMT

I agree completely. When I see companies pay these absurd amounts of money to athletes I assume that they are charging me too much for the product! And, the Michelle Wie thing made me vow to never use Nike products - they spoiled her too young.

Not buying into the hype

Lorelei Estrada, Lakewood, Ca — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 05:32:06 GMT

I think Tiger is something else. Whatever he touches turns to gold. I'll tell you this; I'll buy his drink and anything else with his name on it. Especially when you have so many athletes that do so many negative things. Again, Tiger is something else!
L

Not buying into the hype

milie, los angeles, ca — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 11:22:16 GMT

amen,amen. Good show. My suggestion for people who have no identity of their own. Have a shirt made or a bowling ball, or bat, etc with YOUR NAME ON IT.
Lol.

Not buying into the hype

Toby Mendoza, Houston, Texas — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 12:19:22 GMT

Just because you have the 'power of the pen' are you able to write such an opinion. Pick a better subject OPEN MIKE for goodness sakes. Sorry I wasted my time reading this article.

Not buying into the hype

Deen Joseph, East Orange, NJ — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 15:12:35 GMT

And, Mike Celizic, how much is MSNBC.com paying you for being a contributor? All you are doing is drawing attention to trashy sports news, creating big revenue for MSNBC.com. You and Tiger Woods are virtually doing the same thing for a nice fat pay check so why bother knocking off Tiger Woods?

Not buying into the hype

Eyphra Pollard Cleveland, MS — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 22:37:43 GMT

is it not possible to change your mind? no matter the case, tiger is playing with nike and winning. you can't deny that. he also said he has been drinking gatorade all along for his workouts. now because he is drinking it during tournaments and has a contract does not detract from gatorade. other players have contracts with companies. are you planning to boycott them as well? this has nothing to do with tiger, gatorade, nike or titleist. you simply don't like tiger. newsflash: millions of other people do and will continue to support him. find something else to be biased against.

Not buying into the hype

Victor, Montgomery Village, Maryland — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 23:19:57 GMT

Who is this Mike Celizic guy? Why does his article sounds like he's "hating" -- to borrow a term from the high-schoolers? The athletes he mentioned earned their endorsement deals by virtue of their excellence in theri respective sports, and the ensuing popularity their talents have brought them. Manufacturers are using the popularity as a marketing strategy. If if brings more money to Nike or Gatorade or Buick, then the athletes are being ideally compensated. If you won't buy these products, you aren't the first, the last or the only one ... and we sure don't need you air your jealousy in a sports article. Get a grip.

Not buying into the hype

Richard L — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 05:21:59 GMT

PLEASE Mike!

Give everyone a break! One should look at the majority of what the "pros" use and base their selection of drivers, putters, golf balls on what the majority uses... EVERY pro on the tour gets endorsements for using a company's product. You criticize Tiger and his endorsements... and then in the next sentence tell us to use their competitor's products. The only sane thing you stated was that not everyone will play like Tiger with his equipment, but in the next second you tell us to buy Titleist, or whatever... that won't make me play like Mickelson, or Ernie or whomever either!

Not buying into the hype

Dr Howard J Kass — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 10:52:46 GMT

Good Morning,
I like articles like this because people beleive exactly what they read rather than thinking for themselves. Advertising is ruling our lives and most of the time the truth is stretched well beyond reason. People need hero's because they cannot trust their own judgements. I think Tiger Woods is the best golfer ever and doing what I would do if I was Tiger Woods.The people need a hero figure like Tiger because they like Tiger more than they like themselves. They need advertising guidance because they cannot make decisions alone. DOC

Not buying into the hype

MW, NYC, NY — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 16:13:24 GMT

No amount of money would get Tiger to use equipment that wasn't absolutely the best for his game, period. His is a quest for golf immortality, and the money is of secondary importance. When Tiger has to split the fairway on the 18th on Sunday at a major to secure a victory, do you really think he would acquiesce to using anything but the best driver or golf ball on the planet for his particular swing? Not a chance. To Tiger, money is important, make no mistake about that, but winning is everything. I can virtually guarantee that there is an out-clause in his Nike contract that says he doesn't have to use the equipment in competition if he feels the quality is not as good or better than anything else out there.

Not buying into the hype

Kevin Haley, Littleton, CO. — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 17:02:46 GMT

Dude are you feeling a little "Tiger envy" ?

Not buying into the hype

Brit NE — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 21:02:06 GMT

Curious as to what endorsement Tiger has taken that has not been a good product? He doesn't endorse products that are no good, so go ahead and keep buying them...

Not buying into the hype

Larry Johnson, Greenwood, SC — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 00:13:08 GMT

Please quit bellyaching about Tiger and his endorsements.

No one I know uses Callaway balls, but I see or hear no mention about Phil. The average golfer's equipment has no impact on their game.

Give Tiger his props. He has earned every penny.

Not buying into the hype

MellyMel, NYC — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 05:55:53 GMT

Mike,

You sound like an out of touch old fart. Welcome to America. It also sounds like you are mad that you are not making the 9 figure sum of moolah Tiger is reportedly going to get. The man is amazing I will certainly buy his products, he is an inspiration. Peace!!

Not buying into the hype

Razor, Rock Hill,SC — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 14:05:36 GMT

Sadly, in this culture of conspicuous-consumption consumerism where hype & hyperbole has replaced intellegence & functionality, it might be expected that Gatorade Tiger will soon be the drink of choice for the average muni-track duffer. Call it "The Law of Supply & Idiots".

Not buying into the hype

Paul Bradley, Santa Monica, California — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 17:01:19 GMT

FYI, Taylormade and every other company pays players to use their equipment. Your statement that Taylormade drivers are better because more tour players use them is just flat out wrong. The players who use Taylormade are sponsored by guess who......Taylormade. Finally, if you want the best driver get fitted by a shop with a launch monitor. You'll find that shaft selection is much more important than the clubhead itself

Not buying into the hype

John Gennette,Shelton,CT — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 17:10:42 GMT

Good advice on all counts, however if you have a good swing you can hit anything.

Not buying into the hype

Chris P, Batavia, NY — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 18:01:44 GMT

the column is a little biased against nike and tiger for that matter. I think all the pro's playing taylor made or titleist are also getting paid by the companies. Even though tiger was getting paid millions by nike he didn't have to play nike equipment and he didn't play it until he felt it surpassed what he was using before, he still uses a titleist putter and they don't pay him anything

Not buying into the hype

Ed Godsey — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 18:25:45 GMT

Mike, tap the brakes you're holding on too tight. There's not too many things out there that some famous face is not advertizing. For years it was Drink Gatorade and "Be Like Mike". I think most of us understand it's all part of the business. This is another business venture for Tiger, plain and simple.

Not buying into the hype

David, San Jose, CA — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 19:05:54 GMT

Mike you should get your facts straight...I thought that this was a prerequisite for journalism. Tiger Woods, when he was an amateur, played a Cobra deep face driver, has a x-100 true temper steel shaft installed in it, and yes did play titleist balls, all because they were the best available at the time. Just 25 years ago, Wilson Sporting Goods owned the PGA tour but times change. The R&D that these companies spend in more than the GDP of most African nations. The rank and file tour players are paid handsomely for playing their clubs...perhaps not in the range of Tiger and Phil...but they are paid well. These players too will only use the flavor of the day if it works. You would need a compass to navigate around the world of each of the tour players bags...what works today may not work tomorrow. At least this article showed your complete lack of journalistic preparation...just like many of your brethren who write about a game they cant possibly understand.

Not buying into the hype

Richard DiLorenzo Muncie, IN — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 19:08:44 GMT

You want to find the "best" golf clubs....Look at what they were playing before they put their name on their bag... You'll find a lot of Pings... Tiger included

Not buying into the hype

Barry M. Gold — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 19:55:43 GMT

A story of Gluttonous Behavior Extraordinaire...

I had just turned 62 having started playing golf at 59. I hesitatingly told my wife I needed to buy a set of clubs and it could cost $1,000.00 or more...and, she said, "OK".

So, I run to see the guy at the Roger Dunn store who said, "Do you want to impress your friends or take their money?"

A little saddened, I none the less buy the PinSeekers for $499.00 AND LOVED THEM.

Three years later, my wife asked me what I want for Christmas, so I trade in the PinSeekers for brand new $1000,00 Callaway's and haven't hit the ball as good since.

Not buying into the hype

James O'Neal, Springfield, VA — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 20:36:23 GMT

Mike, how can you criticize Nike and Gatorade while championing Taylor Made and Titleist? Although Taylor Made has the most drivers in play on Tour, they also pay the most "tee up money" - money that is paid to Tour players in order for a manufacturer to claim a certain player count for marketing purposes. Therefore, TM may not have the best driver, either; rather, they simply pay the most guys to play their product.

If you're going to criticize one company, criticize them all.

Not buying into the hype

Ron Turner — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 21:13:41 GMT

How refreshing to read something honest and unhyped about Tiger and the business that golf has become.

Not buying into the hype

Mike T — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 00:07:52 GMT

The Nike brand of golf stuff works also, not just Titleist and TaylorMade maybe your friend just can't hit a draiver period.

Not buying into the hype

Tom, Ballston Spa NY — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 00:44:56 GMT

Mike--You made some very good points regarding the choice of aparrel and equipment however; I think you missed the key point. Guys like me and you have played golf for years and are set in our ways. We may try an occasional new product (the Nike balls are cheaper than the ProV1's) but we'll buy what works for us and not be swayed to buy something based soley on the athlete...regardless of sport. The point that you've missed is that these endorsements and products are not targeted to us...they are targeted to our children and other people who just don't know any better. "Hell, if Tiger plays with these then they must be good so I'll buy them" is what the marketing execs hope will happen...and it usually does. My wife started playing golf this Summer and when WE (operative word there)went to the store/golf shop I told the salesman to show me a no-name set that comes with EVERYTHING because until she understands the game and learns how to play anything more exotic than a set of ACME's would be out of the question. Why spend money foolishly. Unfortunately, a lot of people will go to the store looking for the product that their favorite star uses so they can "be like mike" or in this case, like Tiger.

Not buying into the hype

Ken Woodard — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 01:42:11 GMT

What's with Mike Celizic? Couldn't find an orginal story to write so he reguritates the ole "Not Buying Into Tiger's Hype!" act like we haven't heard or read THAT one before. Mike must think most of us have short memories. That ole line has been told and re-told so many times it's become as dull as rusty razorblades! Anyone who buys a product simply because it was hyped by a celebrity isn't playing with a full deck! I have long known that just because some jock or celebrity says it works doesn't mean it works for me. I was a big fan of the great southpaw Sandy Koufax. I, too am a lefty so I patterned my baseball fantasy after him. I would windup like him and throw like him. Trouble was I didn't have a fastball that his or a curveball like his! After, getting the pants blown off by a number of street kids in little league baseball I quickly learned that I wasn't going to be anywhere near the stature of Sandy Koufax! Many of us learn that we won't hit it as far as Tiger or play the game like Tiger. But please, Celizic! Let us have our fantasy without your constant reminder that Tiger's hype is just that! We know he's filling his pockets. So what!!! We would all probably do the same if we were in his shoes. He doesn't owe anyone an explanation or an apology. We as adults should be able to figure this out on our own without Mike Celizic acting as teacher!!!!

Not buying into the hype

Matt, Lenoir, NC — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 02:39:05 GMT

Boy, was that a lame piece of drivel.

Not buying into the hype

Charles Konuwa Hamilton, New Jersey — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 05:55:50 GMT

I think Mike is just jealous because Tiger is making all those millions of dollars, something he will never ever make even a percentage of.
Just live with it, Mike. Whether you like it or not, this is the era of the Tiger and there is nothing you can do about it. Period.

Not buying into the hype

D. Coggins, Frederick, MD — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 12:19:31 GMT

This would be about the last bs subject to pick at tiger with. As I remember, some of the Golden Bear equipment wasn't top of the line, either. Enjoy the money, you earned it.

Not buying into the hype

Ree San — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 15:26:32 GMT

looking good makes you feel good, so i think if wearing something that makes you feel good does give you a little bit of confidence to play good as well. i know it works for me.

Not buying into the hype

ward Hillyer — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 15:57:50 GMT

I don't disagree with the idea buy because they work, not because some guy promotes them...But there seems to be a crankiness directed at the endorsers, particularly Woods. I bet if you could get a100 million on an endorsement you just might do it.

Not buying into the hype

godfrey christophe,lubbock, texas. — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 17:31:04 GMT

open mike need to mute this sort of comments and analysis.where were you when jack nicklaus was selling his name to the highest bidder or peyton manning or babe ruth and his foundation.this is america,capitalism at its best. so mike be quiet and shut up.

Not buying into the hype

Jay J, Rochester, NY — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 22:26:19 GMT

Mike,

While it would seem that your point is compelling, I only offer the following question/comment: Where, in professional sports, is there an athlete who isn't hawking some sort of sports drink, protein bar or apparel? The landscape of professional sports is littered with the stars (both past and present) of their respective sport, endorsing a product. Just look at your favorite NASCAR driver. You can't even count how many company logos (and products) that they wear on their suits, cars and helmets. If J Gord wins a race, what is the FIRST thing they do when he pulls into the winner's circle and gets out of his car?? They hand him a Pepsi bottle. He takes ONE sip and then sprays the rest on the crowd and his crew. He doesn't want it but he's paid to drink it, as mandated by his contract with them. Does this mean that when you're thirsty you won't drink a Pepsi because Gordon does? Get serious.
It's all aimed at the consumer! Demand will always drive price and availability...

Not buying into the hype

Eric, SJ — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 00:37:39 GMT

Mike,

If Tiger played Taylor Made, you'd be playing Nike. It's as simple as that.

Me? I build and play clones fitted for me, and hit them well.

Not buying into the hype

Gayle Niemeyer — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 00:45:09 GMT

What on earth is your problem? Athletes have been endorsing products since the late sixties. Have you been missing in action for 45 years or what? From Wheaties to Nike, to Reebok, Puma, Adidas, vehicles, golf carts, shirts, shoes, golf clubs footballs, coke, pepsi, helmets, gatorade, insurance yada, yada, yada
Tiger can endorse anything someone will pay him for...you don't have to buy it if you DON'T wish to, but it will still be out there.
The old Green Monster is rearing its head, me think.

Not buying into the hype

Los Angeles — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 01:36:31 GMT

Mike Celizic is a liar, everything we eat, drive, wear, listen to, (radios, mp3 players) look at (TV's,) are indorsed by somebody. So Mike lives in a cave, and walks everywhere he goes, bare feet? He's a Tiger Woods hater and he wants someone to join him. Even the clubs he's using are indorsed by somebody! If he used Tigers personal clubs he still wouldn't break 90. He's a bum and always going to be a bum.

Not buying into the hype

Steve Wilson — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 04:42:23 GMT

Nike pays obscene amounts of money to Tiger because people will pay obscene amounts of money for products endorsed by him. Don't blame Gatorade or Tiger, this is Capitalism. If consumer's won't pay for it, companies won't do it.

Not buying into the hype

Ronald Simmons Los Angeles California — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 12:51:36 GMT

Not buying into the hype

Chris — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 15:55:59 GMT

I've ben following the Master's this year, and am sickened by the continuing hype of Tiger Woods, and I wore Nike shoes when that's all they made and made only one style.
The problem is the media making him into Hercules.
Sure he's a great golfer, but there are other deserving players that play golf. The media talks as if he is the ONLY golfer.
Well, for me, bowling my first perfect game at age 52 including 22 strikes in a row--when Tiger has 7 green jackets, He'll earn my respect, which he already had except for the media ruining it by fawning all over him even when he gets trounced by a no-name.