Good morning. This is your Happy Valley Golf Team Wednesday newsletter. Let’s get it!

Here’s what we’ve got for you today:

• Easiest way to improve your swing

• BMW Championship preview

• LIV taken off air for what?!

• Final major of the year for LPGA

Unsolicited Golf Tips

Watch: The EASIEST way to improve ANY golf swing!

BMW Championship Preview

The 2024 BMW Championship is set to deliver an exhilarating weekend of golf as the top 50 players in the FedExCup standings descend upon the picturesque Castle Pines Golf Club in Castle Rock, Colorado. With the season reaching its climax, the stakes couldn't be higher as players vie for a coveted spot in the top 30 and a chance to claim the FedExCup title at next week's Tour Championship.

Scheffler and Schauffele Lead the Pack

World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler enters the tournament as the odds-on favourite at +320. Scheffler has been in top notch form this season, racking up an impressive 15 top-10 finishes in just 17 starts. Hot on his heels is the double major champion Xander Schauffele at +650. Schauffele, fresh off his triumphs at the US PGA Championship and The Open, will be looking to continue his winning ways and close the gap on Scheffler in the FedExCup standings.

McIlroy Seeks Redemption

Despite a disappointing T68 finish at the FedEx St. Jude Championship, Rory McIlroy (+1000) remains a force to be reckoned with. The four-time major champion is still in contention for an unprecedented fourth FedExCup title thanks to his two wins earlier in the season. Can McIlroy find his form at Castle Pines and make a late charge for glory?

The Defending Champion's Quest

Viktor Hovland, the defending BMW Championship and FedExCup champion, will be looking to recreate the magic of his stunning victory last year. Hovland's final-round 61, which included a blistering seven-under-par 28 on the back nine, was the lowest finish by a winner on Tour in 2023. After a year of struggles following swing changes, the Norwegian appears to be finding his groove just in time, as evidenced by his runner-up finish in Memphis last week.

Weather at Castle Pines

At first glance it’s looking like a soggy week. But, the only time they should have any problems is Thursday afternoon, at the time of writing. If they can get round 1 finished up on Thursday it should be smooth sailing the rest of the week.

The wind is relatively low all weekend. The strongest winds they are calling for is Sunday afternoon when the leaders are coming down the stretch. And even then it’s only 12mph. None-the-less it should make for an eventful finish!

The Battle for East Lake

With only 30 spots available at the Tour Championship next week, the pressure is on for players to perform at Castle Pines. Notable names on the bubble include Will Zalatoris (37th), who fired three rounds in the 60s at the FedEx St. Jude to keep his East Lake dreams alive, and Keegan Bradley (50th), the 2025 Ryder Cup captain who proved he can still compete with the world's best.

The Longest Course in PGA Tour History

At a staggering 8,130 yards, Castle Pines Golf Club will be the longest course ever played on the PGA Tour. However, with an average altitude of 6,200 feet, the ball is expected to fly much farther than at sea level. Expect to see some MAMMOTH drives and thrilling shot-making as players figure out this unique challenge.

The Stats That Matter

When it comes to winning at Castle Pines, driving distance and accuracy will be key. Last year, Hovland led the field in driving accuracy, hitting an impressive 43 out of 56 fairways. Strokes Gained: Tee to Green and Strokes Gained: Putting will also be big factors in determining who comes out on top.

As the 2024 BMW Championship unfolds, we are in for a treat. With the world's best players battling it out on a breathtaking course, the stage is set for an unforgettable weekend of drama, excitement, and exceptional golf. Who will rise to the occasion and secure their spot at East Lake? Tune in to find out!

News You Need to Know

Five things to know: Castle Pines Golf Club

BMW Championship betting guide: 4 picks our expert loves this week

Tough look for LIV: CW broadcast of Brooks Koepka-Jon Rahm duel at LIV Greenbrier beat out by … pickleball?

What do the pros get for free from golf brands? Michael Kim Dive into it. It may surprise you!

The final LPGA major of the year is here. The AIG Women’s Open is being played at the Old Course at St. Andrews this week.

Meme of the Week

Thanks for reading!

Enjoy the rest of your week,

Cody.