Think school is overrated? Some of golf's finest would disagree. While the occasional superstar rises to prominence in the international golf scene without the advantage of a college career, most of the biggest names in the game put their time and money into higher learning. So here's to business courses that facilitate strategic thinking, Psych 101 for getting into your opponent's head, and geometry classes that help you calculate just the right angles on the course!

Here's a trivia question for you: Do you know who the first female professional golfer was? Helen Hicks, that's who! And boy...once she got started, there was no stopping the movement of women in golf.

Courses in strange and even treacherous locales, odd rules at one of the sport's finest clubs, and other curious tales--there is no shortage of trivia in this crazy world of golf.

It is that time of year when the game of golf is in, pardon the pun, full swing. Bags are being dusted off, clubs are being inspected and cleaned, and new and used balls are being purchased. This is the perfect opportunity to take a look at some historic, old, new, and unusual American golf courses and the players who played on them. Take a trip with us across the country and through time for a nostalgic look at some of the links that have made this great game even more exceptional.

Image Source: http://www.today.com/health/boy-6-play-100-holes-golf-one-day-raise-money-t25496 Golf is one of those sports where a large number of players and organizations are dedicated to giving back to society--in a big way. The PGA tour has raised about 2 billion dollars to date. It also teaches fundamental values such as good sportsmanship, integrity, and respect. Children who learn the game carry these values with them for the rest of their lives. This has proven true, as evidenced by the story of 6-year-old Ryan McGuire, who lost a kindergarten classmate to cancer and decided to honor his friend by playing his favorite game--golf. With his grandfather, a cancer survivor himself, acting as his caddy, Ryan played 100 holes in his friend's honor and has since raised more than $30,000. The proceeds of his efforts will be donated to cancer research. Here are some stories of other young men and women who have been impacted by or used golf, other sports or sports-related subjects, to make a difference in their world and the lives of others.

The (golf) heroes of the world are about to be challenged. No, we’re not talking about the latest big-screen adaptation of a comic book. The Hero World Challenge Tournament will be held from December 3-7 at the Isleworth Golf and Country Club in Orlando, Florida.

This Christmas, add some of the magic of the course underneath the tree. We’ve been playing “Santa’s helper” to find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list, from your boss to your co-workers to your children and grandchildren. Check out our list (and check it twice!) for the best golf gifts on a budget. The Boss For the avid golfer technology whiz, Game Golf ($199) is sure to please. An external device records your rounds using tags that attach to your clubs. After you play, plug the device into your computer to analyze your performance. Download the accompanying mobile app to track your progress on the go! You can’t go wrong with a classic golfer gift set ($39.95) — great for a beginner or an expert golfer. This one includes a deluxe golf shoe bag, a valet, and a bag cooler. Give the gift of sight with a golf scope ($17.99) that allows you to estimate the distance to the flag using an internal distance reticle. It provides a clear view with yardage clearly labeled. Leatherette pouch and wrist strap included. The Lost Golf Balls 12 Titleist Pro V1 2014 Holiday Box ($29.99), makes the perfect gift for your boss. Included is a LostGolfBalls.com Poker Chip, 2-sided Club Brush, a 30pk of Zero Friction Tees and a one size fits all glove.