More than just a Golf Game

[3113]

When Dieter Esch began looking at the players on the LPGA Tour, he quickly figured out that something was missing. He sensed they always appeared out of place . . . swinging nine-irons, hitting out of bunkers, putting cross-handed on the green. So Esch decided it would be a great idea to put the golfers in something different, something the casual public does not see them in, at least up to now.

Like bikinis. Like lingerie. Like evening gowns.

"This was perfect, to show the world there are sexy, athletic women who can play," said Esch, who is using his company and his clout to turn seven female pro players into model citizens. They are the Wilhelmina 7, a hand-picked group of seven LPGA pros represented by Wilhelmina Artist Management...Kim Hall was the first player recruited by Esch. The 26-year-old, a three-time All-Pacific 10 Conference player at Stanford, loved the photographs of her in a swimsuit. So did her husband, Casey.

"It was nice to feel glamorous," said Hall, one of four in the group who is playing in the U.S. Women's Open this week at Interlachen Country Club. "I'd rather be known for my golf, but it's a bonus when you're considered attractive. It's flattering. It's kind of nice to be one of the 'cute' ones."

Full story here.

http://www.latimes.com/media/photo/2008-06/40355003.jpghttp://www.latimes.com/media/photo/2008-06/40355040.jpg

http://www.latimes.com/media/photo/2008-06/40355114.jpghttp://www.latimes.com/media/photo/2008-06/40355146.jpg

Whadda think? Will this help the image of women's golf?

 

[jomar]

I would watch the LPGA more if they played in lingerie.



I do think I read where the women are encouraged to wear short skirts instead of shorts on tour to help ratings. Sex sells, you know. And Tiger is out for the rest of the season.

 

[TE999]

This is a shameful ploy to solicit spectators and viewers for professional female golfers that is rendolent of sexisim and a hypocritical double standard. I find it degrading and disgusting to Womyn athletes, and the entire gender. I'm appalled.








(How about a topless golf tournament sponsored by Hooters? )

 

[jomar]

This is a shameful ploy to solicit spectators and viewers for professional female golfers that is rendolent of sexisim and a hypocritical double standard. I find it degrading and disgusting to Womyn athletes, and the entire gender. I'm appalled.








(How about a topless golf tournament sponsored by Hooters? )

LOL

I didn't see the punch line until I quoted.

I think the idea is to draw 'young' male viewers in and then they'll stay for the golf, because they're good. Although they probably hope for an upskirt or two. Why should tennis get all the attention.