Boring Inventors

Have you seen the Golf Channel’s latest schlock show, “Fore Invntors Only?” It’s a cross between “American Idol” and “Mr. Wizard.” The premise is that a panel of three judges – aging PGA Tour pro Fulton Allem, golf instructor Bill Harmon and “Golf for Women” senior editor Stina Sternberg judge presentations by inventors of golf items. The judges will critique the 103 inventors competing in the series and pare the finals down to five finalists. Viewers will vote for a winner, who will see his or her invention sold at Golfsmith stores for one year, receive an infomercial and $50,000 of advertising on the Golf Channel.

The judges approved several goofy inventions that I doubt many real golfers would purchase. For example, one guy had a golf bag that included a small, canvas fold out seat attached to it. Another guy had an electronic timer that beeped in one-minute intervals so players could keep track of the time elapsed while searching for lost balls. At least they didn’t approve the guy who came up with a notched tee that broke in half at impact and could be re-used on par three holes. They did approve an innovative golf travel bag with an extra set of fold out wheels as well as a device that allows players to check their stance and ball position. Of course, there are the usual nut jobs but their entertainment value is limited. The other problem with the show is that none of the panelists are very compelling personalities and the unctuous Vince Cellini, host of the “Big Break” shows interviews the contestants back stage.

Hitting range balls while wondering what ever happened to Bob Lunn.