570: Jim Samsing of the Bird Golf Academy career as a golf teaching professional spans more than three decades. A competitive player since 1970, and the winner of the 1973 Montbello Open Pro-Am, Jim also recorded top 10 finishes in several state opens. Jim was also the Head Professional at Mission Hills C.C. in the mid 70’s. His teaching philosophy is to keep the swing as simple as possible, developing strong fundamentals and swing skills, and using the brain as the major tool in the development of these skills. He is the foremost expert in the theory of the “Double Connexion”, a mental discipline used on the PGA tour. Jim is a true master and student of the game, who’s style is successful with players of all abilities. Jim is also an accomplished club fitting specialist. We are proud to have Jim as our West Coast Director of Instruction.

For Premium subscribers, here’s a link https://youtu.be/_fjVwY_IY28> to a bonus video of the Golf Smarter Podcast published December 13, 2016. Podcast host Fred Greene sits down with Rocio Robles, General Manager of El Manglar Campo de Golf (Golf Course) Riviera Maya, Mexico. Operated by Vidanta Golf, El Manglar is a Jack Nicklaus Design 18 hole - Par 54 course. Even though each hole is a par 3, holes from the black tees (2923yds) range in length from 103-276 yards, with 10 of the holes being over 150 yards and 11 having water in play. The four longest holes, #4 (223yds), #13 (276yds), #14 (195yds), and #18 (195yds), all require you to carry either streams or lakes. We wouldn't be surprised if the slope from the back tees are over 133, but no rating or slope is offered. 

Inserted throughout the interview with Rocio, Fred provides commentary, photos, and video from his round and a time-lapse of the sunrise from the beach. 


This is an incredible property on the Caribbean coast of Mexico, south of Cancun, north of Playa del Carmen, that boasts 5 hotels,