An Open Letter to Phil Mickelson

Dear Phil,

It’s been widely reported that you have yet to accept Bermuda’s invitation to play this year’s PGA Grand Slam of Golf, which will be held on October 18-20 at Port Royal Golf Course in Southampton. Bermuda’s own Royal Gazette reported that you might not come despite winning this year's Masters—a move which according to some, may doom the tournament’s chances of ever returning to the island—as did pundits on Golf Digest’s Local Knowledge blog and on Golf TV earlier this week. Everyone’s talking, Phil, but no one really knows what you’re gonna do. So in case you’re still on the fence about joining Graeme McDowell, Luis Oosthuizen and Martin Kaymer at this year’s Grand Slam in Bermuda here are a few reasons why you should play Port Royal this October.

The course is that good. There may be seven golf courses on Bermuda but Port Royal is easily the island’s finest with sweeping ocean vistas, breathtaking tropical landscapes and one of the greatest holes in all of golf. Originally designed in 1970 by world-renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Sr., the course recently underwent a $14.5 million renovation spearheaded by original design team member Robert Rulewich. The result? TifEagle greens for a consistent roll, tranquil new lakes supported by a state-of-the-art irrigation system and stunning Atlantic Ocean views from nearly every hole. The course was also extended by 281 yards—now at a total of 6,842 yards, it’s Bermuda’s longest and most challenging course. If that’s not enough to get you on a plane then consider teeing up on Port Royal’s signature hole, the 238-yard par-three 16th, with nothing but the Atlantic between the tee and the pin. Wanna see it for yourself? Then check out this video I shot and edited from last year’s Grand Slam.

Guaranteed cash. This is not a winner takes all tournament, so whether you come in first or last, you’re guaranteed a payday. First place wins you $600,000, second gets $300,000, third nets $250,000 and fourth earns $200,000. Not too shabby for two day’s work.

Veggie dishes at House of India. Reports have been flying about how you’ve recently turned vegetarian to help battle your arthritis. Congrats! Although I’m sure it’s been hard staying away from your beloved burgers. Don’t let a tournament keep you away from your new diet—just have one of your underlings bring you take out from House of India, where you can get some of the best Indian food in all of Bermuda. I love the mixed vegetable curry, saffron rice and warm garlic naan but there are lots of great veggie dishes to choose from. And if all else fails you can always grab a salad at Port Royal’s ocean view restaurant, 64º (try the arugula with vanilla poached pear, blue cheese and caramelized pecans; it’s to die for).

You look great in pink. We all know what a staunch supporter you’ve been of your wife and mother’s battles with breast cancer. I sincerely applaud your strength and courage and wish your family the best, but just think of the exposure you could give to this horrible disease if you were to don Bermuda’s famed pink jacket after winning it all. Forget about ribbons. This is a pink blazer from the English Sports Shop we’re talking about. It looked great on Lucas Glover last year and it’ll look even better on you.

The crystal trophy was yours in 2004. It can be yours again. 'Nuff said.

Sincerely,

David LaHuta