PutterZone – Best Putter Reviews
When the Masters iPhone application debuted earlier this year, it set a new standard for mobile enjoyment of a major tournament. But now the Masters app has been one-upped by the free U.S. Open iPhone app, which not only features flyover videos of each hole of Bethpage Black, but also walk-through videos of each hole as well.
For example, you can get a ground-level view of the par-five fifth hole with accompanying video of USGA Director of Rules Mike Davis explaining what’s different about the course this time around. He even tosses a ball on the ground near the green to demonstrate how the ball will no longer maddeningly roll off the hill at the slightest nudge. It’s not all lollipops to the pros, however, as Davis also explains how the removal of pine trees behind the green has made approach shots more difficult by eliminating a reference of depth perception.
There is also a browser version of the app that can be viewed on most mobile internet devices at m.usopen.com.
One area where the U.S. Open iPhone app falls short of its Masters companion is in live tournament coverage. The U.S. Open app will feature only one hole of live coverage on Saturday and Sunday. However, it will also feature live “marquee” group coverage on Thursday and Friday, but it remains to be seen what that will include.
Still, like never before, the walk-through videos put the nitty-gritty details of a major tournament course in the palm of your hand. And, of course, you can’t beat the price of admission.
What a cool app iPhone includes, I would like to get one very soon to watch the free U.S. and some other great tournaments.