Smith: Bill Griffin

The U. S. Open is not supposed to be something easy to win; inherent in its challenge are adversity and stress. If you want an easy track, stay away from Oakmont and ply your time at some muni course in some obscure, no-name town.

Smith: Manuel Diaz

The upcoming induction of three Bulldog icons into the “Circle of Honor” in late August will be especial in that in the prime years of their Georgia careers, they were the best of their time: Herschel Walker was the best running back in the country; Jeff Wallace was the best women’s coach; and...

Smith: Rose, Shoeless Joe

The news about Pete Rose and Shoeless Joe Jackson will result in bringing about much verbiage for years to come. Some will always regret Commissioner Robert Manfred’s decision, while others will proclaim that it was long overdue.

Smith: Robert Miles

The University of Georgia chapter of the National Football Foundation recently conducted its annual awards banquet, marking the conclusion of Robert Miles’ tenure as its president.

Smith: A most exciting day

There has always been something electrifying about the Kentucky Derby, which trumpets its mile-and-a-quarter race as “The most exciting two minutes in sports.

Smith: Vince Dooley

Late in his life, as lawsuits were making the NCAA’s life more miserable than ever and paying the players was bringing about consternation for the game, the late Vince Dooley said in a casual conversation, “I am glad I coached when I did.

Smith: UGA Hall of Fame

Following World War II, Americans were anxious to return to normalcy. A big part of that came in embracing college football on Saturday afternoons. The nation and college campuses were filled with returning veterans looking to obtain a degree and get on with their lives.

Smith: Verne Lundquist

As the Masters officially got underway, I began my day (mid-morning was not a deterrent) with a pimento cheese sandwich and a Diet Coke.Then I beat it over to the manor clubhouse for a respite with a smattering of friends and acquaintances beneath the Big Oak by the first tee.

Smith: Planting in April

April is a good time for planting in Georgia — everything from the larger row crops such as cotton, corn, and peanuts to most anything that can be grown in a garden.The last frost usually occurs by mid-April in most parts of the state, except for North Georgia.

Smith: Masters memories

With the Masters coming up next week, there are so many memories and reflections to remind us of what this great state has to offer the world.