This Week at WorldGolf.com: Jan. 04, 2005

It's been a solid month for the Associated Press (AP), which recently told the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) to take its system(?) and stuff it. Essentially, the AP told the BCS to stop using its poll. Bravo. The move doesn't automatically fix college football, but it's a start.

The AP scored again last week when it named Annika Sorenstam as the Female Athlete of the Year for the second straight year. Diana Taurasi and Maria Sharapova both had fine years, but nothing approaching the greatness of Sorenstam. Even in an "average" year, Sorenstam was clearly the best the LPGA has to offer. Unlike Vijay's selection as the European Tour's player of the year, there's no controversy here. The AP clearly got it right with Sorenstam.

With many golfers eager for just a ray of sunlight, now's the time to plan your 2005 golf trips. Start your research in one of our many archived sections, a complete listing of travel features from across the globe. While you're looking ahead, be sure to visit the TravelGolf.com Blog, where our writers will soon be joined by a full roster of reader bloggers. (If you haven't applied yet, there's still time.) As always, your comments are welcome on any topic. Have a great week.

Hunting for birdies
at Golf Resort Konopiste

Golf Resort Konopiste is among the newer 18-hole courses in the Prague region, having opened in July 2002. The resort boasts a 7,091-yard, 18-hole track for members, hotel guests, and visitors. "Of the public courses near Prague, Golf Resort Konopiste is the tops," writes Mark Nessmith. "Given time, it should blossom into a wonderful facility that provides an affordable round of golf in a uniquely central European setting."
Full story | Prague golf overview

Embrace technology
when designing courses

Golf course architect Ron Garl is known throughout the world for his innovative routing and his commitment to environmentally sensitive designs. TravelGolf.com said he "may be the best golf course architect you've never heard of," though his peers have certainly recognized his achievements. This column signals the start of Garl's new monthly series on golf course design.
Full story | Of rankings and ratings

No need to break the
bank playing golf in Phoenix

A golf trip to Phoenix can leave the first-time visitor with mouth agape, wondering if the pricey green fees are worth the high desert views, target golf and hustling bag boys. Still, there are ways to play golf in the Phoenix area without maxing out your credit card, bottoming out your checking account and emptying that little change box in your car console.
Full story | Arizona Golf Courses