Abstract: A golf ball retrieving system, which includes a magnetic golf ball retriever and a golf ball attracted thereto, is disclosed herein. The golf ball retriever includes an elongated rod assembly and a body portion having a circular magnet. The elongated rod assembly is connected to the body portion at one of its ends, and extends radially outward from the circular magnet of the body portion. The golf ball includes a metallic material disposed in one of: (i) an inner core, (ii) at least one mantle layer, (iii) an outer skin, (iv) a space between the inner core and the outer skin, (v) a space between the inner core and the at least one mantle layer, and (vi) a space between the at least one mantle layer and the outer skin. The metallic material provided in the golf ball is in the form of a ferrous powder.

Abstract: A golf training system includes at least one target/connecting member having a top wall defining a central opening and a perimeter wall defining a plurality of openings spaced apart from each other about the circumference of the perimeter wall. The target/connecting member is configured to be used as a target by fastening the target/connecting member to the ground using a golf tee or to other surfaces using an integrated anchoring system. Alignment rods are configured to be inserted through the openings in the perimeter wall. Target/connecting members can attach multiple alignment rods together in predetermined configurations for use as golf training aids.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a spot putting device and method of use wherein the spot putting device is comprised generally of an adjustable wicket having an arch and two distal prongs and two rounded bead-like elements wherein the bead-like elements are attached to the distal prongs of the adjustable wicket. The present invention also discloses a system of improving golf spot putting of a golfer wherein one or more spot putting devices are configured in one or more gap paired implantation holes in a platform with an artificial turf layer attached to the top surface of the platform.

Abstract: A golf practice device having a simulated putting green surface having artificial turf that is approximately the same height and an appearance similar to an actual grass putting surface. Surrounding the putting surface is a collar of artificial turf with grass blades that are longer than the putting surface portion. The turf surfaces may have the ability to float or a floatable substrate can be disposed below the turf for using the device as a floating target for golf shots.

Abstract: A golf putting target includes an upper wall portion, the upper wall portion defining a central opening. The target also includes a cylindrical outer wall portion extending beneath the upper wall portion that includes a bottom edge. A tee support portion extends beneath the upper wall portion proximate the central opening, The upper wall portion and the cylindrical outer wall portion define a hollow interior that is open through the bottom edge. The cylindrical outer wall portion has a body has a height that is at least half of a diameter of a regulation-sized golf ball, and has a diameter that is less than or equal to a diameter of a regulation-sized golf cup.

Abstract: A golf putting target includes an upper wall portion, the upper wall portion defining a central opening. The target also includes a cylindrical outer wall portion extending beneath the upper wall portion that includes a bottom edge. A tee support portion extends beneath the upper wall portion proximate the central opening, The upper wall portion and the cylindrical outer wall portion define a hollow interior that is open through the bottom edge. The cylindrical outer wall portion has a body has a height that is at least half of a diameter of a regulation-sized golf ball, and has a diameter that is less than or equal to a diameter of a regulation-sized golf cup.

Abstract: A golf putting or chipping target includes a first fabric member for resting on a playing or practice surface. The target further includes a second fabric member for providing a visual target for a golfer. The golf putting or chipping target further includes a weight located between the first and second fabric members and means for joining the first fabric member to the second fabric member.

Abstract: A beach golf game includes at least one rigid cup and a plurality of balls each sized to fit in the rigid cup. A rules sheet sets forth game rules and describes game play. The rigid cup and the balls are encased in a carrying bag. In playing the game, the cup is used to dig a hole in a sandy surface, and the cup is placed in the hole such that a top of the cup is level with the sandy surface. A mound of sand is built on one side of the cup, and players take turns attempting to roll the balls into the cup.

Abstract: A stand for supporting a golf flagpole in an inclined position includes a collar rotatably secured to the shaft of the flagpole and one or more legs pivotably coupled to the collar. The one or more legs hang generally parallel to the shaft when the flagpole is in an upright position. When the flag of the flagpole is tipped toward the green, the one or more legs swing outwardly away from the shaft to a position generally perpendicular to the shaft to support the flagpole in an inclined position. Regardless of the position or direction that the legs are facing when the flag is tipped toward the green, the collar rotates so that the legs extend to the green to support the flagpole.

Abstract: Two devices, an adjustable pendulum golf putting trainer device and a golf ball target device are useful to teach individuals to emulate the natural swing of a pendulum with their putter. The devices are used when practicing and playing competitive putting games. The pendulum golf putting device is vertically adjustable in three ways, adjusting the vertical support for the pendulum, adjusting the telescoping pendulum to reach the back side of the putter head and moving the pendulum toward and away from the individual. The ball capturing device is independent of the golf putting trainer device and is made of soft wood (cedar or pine). It is independently positioned and provides three different sized targets with separated ball catch areas that earn 1, 2, or 3 points for successful putts. The pendulum putting trainer can be used inside or outside in areas as small as 4×4 square feet or as large as a family room, basement, garage, gymnasium or back yard provided the areas have an acceptable putting surface.

Abstract: The invention described herein relates to golf cups and flag sticks. More particularly, the subject matter described herein relates to a system for improved golf flag stick stability and reduced golf cup and/or flag stick ferrule wear. The invention provides a ferrule, golf cup and methods to improve golf flag stick stability and reduce golf cup and/or flag stick ferrule wear. As such, the subject matter described herein relates to providing more consistent golf ball entry due to the stabilization of the flag stick.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention is a surface for playing a game based on the rules of American football using a golf putter and golf ball. The playing surface comprises two end zones and a grid representing the yard lines of a football field. A first down putting target is positioned adjacent to each yard line that is a multiple of ten, and a scoring putting target is positioned in each end zone. In another embodiment, the present invention is a method for playing the game. Two teams compete against one another and are given alternating offensive possessions. In each offensive possession, the offensive team has four downs to either putt the ball in a first down target, thereby obtaining a new set of four downs, or putt the ball in the scoring target. With each first down achieved, the ball advances closer to the scoring target.

Abstract: A golf training apparatus is provided that includes one or more components, such as a chipping mat, a putting mat, and a chipping basket. The chipping mat includes a base and at least one section of artificial turf disposed over the base and at least one section of artificial turf includes at least one simulated divot disposed therein. The chipping mat may include a plurality of sections of artificial turf, each simulating a different type of grass found on a golf course, such as the fairway, rough, and deep rough. The putting mat has a section in a first geometric shape that tapers toward or into a section in a second geometric shape smaller than the first geometric shape having the hole disposed therein. The chipping basket has a plurality of sides with at least one of the sides having a variable sized hole disposed therein.

Abstract: A fun and entertaining backyard lawn game related to the traditional game of golf. Players take turns striking their ball with a golf club from a plurality of designated tees towards a singular cup. Each player's ball is of a non-traditional design and changes the strategy and dynamics of play. The cup is also a non-traditional design with mechanical obstructions to the ball and on occasion may be adjusted by each player to impede the chances of a subsequent opponent from holing his ball in the cup. A winner is determined by a unique method of scoring.

Abstract: Multiple variations on a novel device and method for improving golf-putting skills are disclosed. Specifically, the present invention relates to the construction and use of an asymmetrical golf-putting target zone that encourages users to direct putts to land within a specific two-putt range on the high-percentage side of the cup, where the high-percentage side is determined by the slope and pitch of the putting surface. The motivation for the asymmetry is disclosed, as are the principles for constructing, implementing, and using the asymmetrical zone. Specifically, the axis separating the asymmetrical subregions of the zone is placed either approximately perpendicular to, or approximately coincident upon, an ideal line of the ball's approach and is oriented such that the larger subregion is placed on the side of the cup with the higher elevation, or on the side of the cup further away from the putting location if the putting surface is flat.

Abstract: A golf putting training device including a circular target having a substantially flat body having substantially parallel upper and lower surfaces. A bumper formed of rubber or an elastomeric polymer is attached to or integral with the peripheral edge of the target. The upper surface of the target has a plurality of substantially equally spaced-apart primary lines extending from the center to the peripheral edge to form a lane between each adjacent pair of primary lines. The width of each lane is substantially the width of a regulation hole. The circular target can be divided into partially circular targets having a 90 degree, 180 degree, or 270 degree circumference.

Abstract: A portable golf practice game consisting of a wall having a front face, rear face, and base. The wall includes a plurality of openings along the base for the entry of an object there-through. Each opening includes an opening sensor to detect the presence of an object there-through. The wall further includes proximity sensors along the base to detect the presence of an object not passing though an opening. The sensors emit a signal which is detected by a processor connected to the wall. Each opening has a corresponding graphic element which displays a value interpreted by the processor. A user chooses a game on the input device, then propels an object toward the wall, a sensor emits a signal, the processor interprets the signal and the graphic element displays an assigned value.

Abstract: The present invention demonstrates that the diagnosis and prediction of clinical behavior in patients with hematologic malignancies, such as leukemia, can be accomplished by analysis of proteins present in a plasma sample. Thus, in particular embodiments the present invention uses plasma to create a diagnostic or prognostic protein profile of a hematologic malignancy comprising collecting plasma samples from a population of patients with hematologic malignancies; generating protein spectra from the plasma samples with or without fractionation; comparing the protein spectra with clinical data; and identifying protein markers in the plasma samples that correlate with the clinical data. Protein markers identified by this approach can then be used to create a protein profile that can be used to diagnose the hematologic malignancy or determine the prognosis of the hematologic malignancy. Potentially these specific proteins can be identified and targeted in the therapy of these malignancies.

Abstract: A reusable PU holding pad member, such as a first, second, and third pad holding member, comprises a front surface and a rear surface, between which is fixed an outer sidewall with a predetermined thickness, and the rear and front surfaces of the holding pad member are both an adhesive surface for being attached to and removed from a fixing member repeatedly. The rear surface is provided to securely attach onto the fixing member, and by using the adhesive surface (such as the front and rear surfaces) generated through the networking of the PU molecule structure, not only the dusts attached on the front and rear surfaces of the holding pad member may be washed away, but also the adhesive strength of the front and rear surfaces thereof may be maintained, enabling to be used repeatedly.

Abstract: FIG. 1, the Golf Ball and Club Alignment Kit, has two separate but necessary integral fixtures consisting of an indoor/outdoor carpet with a surface to simulate the ball action on a putting green, but laid out with a grid of contrasting color FIG. 2, the grid lines are laid out to be contiguous with any additional FIG. 2's forming a larger practice area, each square may match the size of a regulation golf hole making it multi-directional and multi-purpose, however, size of squares is not essential to its operation as a ball conveyor. A two-mode surface attaching non-diverting vertically or laterally for accurately putted balls receptacle FIG. 3, can be placed anywhere on or off the FIG. 2, along with any selected teeing spot known as a “tee box”.

Abstract: A golf putting practice device comprising a disc, the disc having an annular top portion and an annular bottom portion, the annular top portion having a top edge and the annular bottom portion having a bottom edge, the annular top and bottom portions forming an outer annular peripheral edge, the disc optionally provided with a central opening extending through from the top edge to the bottom edge, the central opening at the top edge having a diameter substantially greater than the central opening at the bottom edge and the outer annular peripheral edge projecting between the bottom edge and the top edge and spaced a substantial distance from said top and bottom edges.

Abstract: A method of training a golfer to improve his or her putting skills and a device used for such training. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.

Abstract: A golf game including a ball, a first pin, and two second pins, the pins being disposed co-linearly on a putting surface, one second pin on either side of the first pin. A method of playing the golf game including placing the ball on the putting surface at a starting point, standing the first pin and the two second pins on the putting surface at a first distance from the ball, striking the ball with a putter to cause the ball to roll towards the pins, and scoring “one” if the ball knocks down only the first pin, “two” if the ball knocks down the first pin and one or both of the second pins, “three” if the ball knocks down only one of the second pins, or “four” if the ball fails to knock down any pins.

Abstract: The subject matter described herein includes a golf putting practice device, a method for practicing putting using same, and a method for advertising using same. According to one aspect of the subject matter described herein, a golf putting practice device is provided. The golf putting practice device includes a substantially bell shaped member having an upper surface, a lower surface for resting on a putting surface, and a sidewall for joining the upper and lower surfaces and receiving impact from golf balls during putting practice. At least one visual target is located in or on the sidewall for providing an area of visual focus for a golfer during putting practice.

Abstract: A sports training aid that displays multiple surface-targets so as to aid the practitioner in acquiring accurate alignment, identifying an intermediate surface-target upon which to focus, and building confidence. The training aid utilizes a beginning point (16a), intermediate target (16b), and ultimate target (16c) sources. The surface-target displayed by the ultimate target source (16c) is used to aim at the point where the practitioner ultimately wants his or her ball or object to come to rest. The ball or object is placed upon the surface-target displayed by the beginning point source (16a) and is hit so that it passes over the surface-target displayed by the intermediate target source (16b), and if hit with the correct amount of force, it will come to rest in or upon the ultimate target. The target sources are housed in or upon the target source containment base (14) and the target source containment base is supported by an angled support shaft (12) which is supported by a weighted base (10).

Abstract: A golf putter and putting aid. The golf putter comprises a putter head, a shaft and a grip. The head includes a face, a sole and a handle attachment. The shaft includes a first end, a second, a reinforcing means and an interior region having a fill assembly positioned therein. The grip is coupled to the second end of the shaft. The putting aid comprises a base, opposing leg members and securing means. The base includes an upper surface and a lower surface. The opposing leg members extend upwardly from the upper surface of the base and are separated from each other a distance at least slightly greater than the diameter of a golf ball. The securing means secures at least one of the base and the opposing leg members to a putting surface.

Abstract: An indoor miniature golf game is provided with a plurality of environmentally realistic simulated fairways and greens with an optional plurality of tee off positions. Sequential visual activity segments with intermediate target areas are provided on the fairways between the tees and the greens. Various materials both visually and physically simulate the accompanying landscape, so that the golf ball travels quickly over the greens, but is slowed down and caught by rough or water simulated areas. Further, the course is enhanced with simulations of actual scenery and real world playing conditions. Various configurations allow for customized play, which is proportional to the ability of the player.

Abstract: Putting is a very important factor in golf playing. Above all, a putting distance feeling is the hardest to master, and many rounds in golf courses are said to be required for improving putting. Nevertheless, a putter mat is normally only 2- to 3-m long, and a carpet surface or the like that offers the same rolling as by golf greens is hardly available. Many smooth floor surfaces found in homes and firms cannot be used for putting practice due to excessive rolling of golf balls. It is an object of the present invention to eliminate these drawbacks. A ball implement for practicing golf putting is invented which includes a disc provided at the center thereof with a hole, and a main body having a cylindrical portion or a semi-spherical portion erected concentrically with the hole, and which accommodates a golf ball or a mimic golf ball for rolling therein. A dedicated cup for practice is also invented which captures a golf ball by using a magnetic force.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a golf instructional device for assisting a golfer to putt/chip a golf ball to a golf hole. The device includes a substantially rigid body formed to visually identify a point of entry adjacent the golf hole and a breaking point on a line of travel. The body may define an intermediate guideline member having a generally u-shaped configuration formed to surround at least a portion of the golf hole, and elongated first and second guideline members extending from a portion of the intermediate guideline member which define first and second boundaries for the point of entry respectively. At least a portion of the intermediate guideline member is positionable adjacent the golf hole and rotatable thereabout so as to allow the first and second guideline members to collectively define the first and second boundaries for the point of entry and for identifying the breaking point.

Abstract: An above-ground golf cup for synthetic turf and carpeted golf greens. Its regulation sized cup fits snugly into any synthetic surface. Because it features a removable flag stick and nylon flag, it looks more like what a golfer would expect visually. The cups base includes a cup ring that will maintain the integrity of the greens cut cup edges for the life of the green. The unique design includes a clear flange which in action stops the momentum of the golf ball and helps retain the ball within the cups base. This action creates an appealing “plopping” sound normally found on traditional golf cups.

Abstract: A golf ball putting practice member has a main body portion provided with one or more golf ball receiving pockets. Each of the pockets has a pocket shape which inhibits a ball rolled into the pocket from rebounding back out of the pocket.

Abstract: An improved portable putting cup is disclosed that more effectively reproduces an accurate representation of a regulation putting cup for practice putting.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a golf instructional device for assisting a golfer to putt/chip a golf ball to a golf hole. The device includes a substantially rigid body formed to visually identify a point of entry adjacent the golf hole and a breaking point on a line of travel. The body may define an intermediate guideline member having a generally u-shaped configuration formed to surround at least a portion of the golf hole, and elongated first and second guideline members extending from a portion of the intermediate guideline member which define first and second boundaries for the point of entry respectively. At least a portion of the intermediate guideline member is positionable adjacent the golf hole and rotatable thereabout so as to allow the first and second guideline members to collectively define the first and second boundaries for the point of entry and for identifying the breaking point.

Abstract: A golf putting practice device comprising a disc, the disc having an annular top portion and an annular bottom portion, the annular top portion having a top edge and the annular bottom portion having a bottom edge, the annular top and bottom portions forming an outer annular peripheral edge, the disc optionally provided with a central opening extending through from the top edge to the bottom edge, the central opening at the top edge having a diameter substantially greater than the central opening at the bottom edge and the outer annular peripheral edge projecting between the bottom edge and the top edge and spaced a substantial distance from said top and bottom edges.

Abstract: A hole liner and/or post mounting, such as a golf hole cup (10), has a removable end cap (18), for blanking an otherwise exposed lower end of a mounting stem bore (15) for a removable post, such as a flag stick (36); an integrated end cap and optional closure plate variant has a conical, rib bladed, tapered mounting spike profile, for ground penetration and engagement, to promote installed hole cup stability.

Abstract: This aiming device allows golfers to improve their putting and chipping skills. The aiming device is generally u-shaped, and is inserted into a golf cup during practice. The ends of the u-shape are brightly colored to provide a visual clue assisting golfers to aim on the “pro-side” while putting. The aiming device can also be used for practice when the golfer is not at a golf course by placing the aiming device on the floor or ground and chipping or putting using the aiming device as the target. In addition, the aiming device can serve as an advertising medium. The aiming device can be used in a horseshoe-type game by tossing the aiming device at a golf tee or other similar object. The aiming device can also be used in a croquette-type game by standing the device on end and aiming a golf ball through the opening created.

Abstract: A golf hole for a miniature golf course is formed of a plurality of components, these components being divided into three distinct types: platform base panels, side rails, and riser feet. Each platform base panel is constructed or molded with attachments for side rails and riser feet. The riser feet are first attached to platform base panels. The platform base panels are laid out in any desired hole configuration within the parameters of the invention, one platform base panel containing the golf cup. Carpet or artificial turf, continuous or in sections, is then cut to fit and laid over platform base panels. The side rails and metal start rails are placed over the edge of the carpet along the perimeter of the hole and secured to the platform base panels. Obstacles may be bolted to the platform base panels at various points on the putting surface.

Abstract: The present invention provides a scoring overlay in the form of a target and a system for improving golf putting. The overlay is designed for use after a golf putt to provide a score based on the position of the ball relative to the hole. The center of the overlay is placed over the hole on the golf green, and the overlay is oriented based on the direction from which the putt was made. A score is awarded based on the position of the ball on the overlay. Scores are based on how close the ball is to the hole; however, a higher score is awarded for a ball a given distance from the hole that was hit hard enough to reach or pass the hole than for a ball equally distant from the hole that was not hit hard enough to reach the hole. Similarly, lower scores are provided for golf balls hit off line from center, either far to the right or far to the left. The invention also includes a method for improving putting through a game using the overlay.

Abstract: A putting cup may be used not only to practice putting, but also as a promotional item, having a transparent element closing off a depression in the body of the putting cup, and with a printed sheet visible through the transparent element. The printing on the sheet may be promotional indicia, such as promoting a company, product, etc., and the putting cup may be disassembled so as to allow replacement of the printed sheet. A ramp leads up from a surface on which the putting cup is mounted to a depression in the body, which will retain a golf ball therein.

Abstract: A golf practice system is provided including a supporting surface having at least one set of concentric rings. Also included is a base positioned on the supporting surface in spaced relationship with the concentric rings.

Abstract: An apparatus for practicing chip shots in the game of golf includes a base member that is secured to the ground by a stake. A pair of reels are rotatably mounted on the base member and an elongate flexible cord is wound about each reel. A preselected amount of each cord is unwound from its reel and extended at a preselected angle relative to the base member to a remote target area defined by an annular ring of predetermined diameter. A hook is secured to the free end of each cord, and the hook is detachably connected to an upright stake positioned within the preselected target area. Chip shots are practiced by hitting a special, light weight ball along a path of travel denoted by the cords. In a preferred method, the special ball is placed in the vicinity of a preselected target area and hit toward the base member along a first path of travel denoted by a cord means.

Abstract: A new golf practice system for helping a golfer improve their grip on a golf club and fundamentals of golf. The inventive device includes a compact golf club having a standard size club head, a standard size grip, and a reduced shaft therebetween. A golf club container is dimensioned for receiving the grip and shaft of the compact golf club therein. The golf club container has a cylindrical configuration defined by an open upper end, a closed lower end, and a cylindrical side wall therebetween. The open upper end has an arcuate recess extending downwardly thereof for engaging the club head of the compact golf club when positioned within the container. The open upper end has a chain secured thereto. The chain has opposed free ends secured to the open upper end in a diametrically opposed orientation.

Abstract: A device and method for improving the putting of a golf ball is described herein. The instructional device employs a sighting member and a shaft guide to assist in aligning and stroking a golf putt. The device is configured such that a golfer or instructor may develop each putting skill independently or in combination with the other skills. The device comprises two stands, set apart, with the sighting member attached to the top of each stand. A square face indicator may be positioned perpendicular to the sighting member, and the shaft guide may couple to a side of the stands. A method for improving the putting of a golf ball is also described herein, where the method addresses finding and verifying a sight line that extends from a golf ball to a desired target, aligning a golf putter face squarely to said sight line, and moving a putter shaft parallel to said sight line.