Our Very Best Shot

It’s a decision of Olympic proportions, and as you read this, all we can do is wait. I traveled to Brazil this week for a final, 45-minute presentation with Jack Nicklaus in our bid to design the golf course for the 2016 Games in Rio. Jack and I have been strong supporters of golf’s historic return to the Olympics, and we were among eight finalist teams who presented this week. A decision could come as early as tomorrow, and of course, I’ll keep you updated via my blog , Twitter and Facebook. Jack and I did our best and feel like things went well with our presentation and vision of a championship course worthy of hosting the world’s top players for the Olympics, and a course that will also become a top public facility and teaching academy for the people of Rio after the games. We gave it everything we had, but regardless of the outcome, the game of golf will be the true winner. Our fingers are crossed for this great honor.

Thanks for sharing my passion! 

A New Website!

The entire team within the ANNIKA businesses and brands has been working hard in early 2012 to bring you more and better products, services and communications that help you connect with us more efficiently and effectively—in ways that best suit your schedule and needs. Part of that includes our updated ANNIKA Academy website at theannikaacademy.com  which will launch this week! As you read this, we’ll be putting the finishing touches on the new site, and we would love to hear your feedback and opinions in the coming days and weeks. As a note, you may need to empty your cache on your computer to see the new site. Please visit the site and let us know what you think.

Play Like a Champion

Looking to take your game to the next level this season? The Championship Package  at my Academy will help you learn about the specifics of your golf swing and allow time to work on any necessary changes. This in-depth, three-day program includes instruction from my coach, Henri Reis, my sister, Charlotta Sorenstam, and Mark Bereza. You'll also work with my trainer, Kai Fusser, who will help you develop a custom workout plan. Call us today at 1-888-266-4522 to talk about this and other Academy packages. Looking for a special Valentine's gift? A visit to the ANNIKA Academy fits players of every ability, with programs to suit many needs and budgets. Read More Here.

Escape for Good

On Feb. 23-26, I’ll be part of a once-in-a-lifetime event that brings together a group of athletes and individuals who share their passion for excellence, sport and community service. Escape for Good will be held at Sanctuary Spa and Resort on Camelback Mountain in Paradise Valley, Ariz. My co-hosts include Andre Agassi, Muhammad Ali, Cris Collinsworth, Warrick Dunn, Jeff Gordon, Mia Hamm, Tony Hawk, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Alonzo Mourning, Anthony Muñoz and Paul O’Neill. This event takes philanthropy to the next level with discussions on social issues, education, youth service and more, along with a private celebration of Ali’s 70th birthday, plus golf, tennis, a bike ride with Lance Armstrong, a wine dinner, an “Iron Chef” competition with athletes and celebrity chefs, and more. This is a true escape that’s completely private and closed to the public with no filming, no fundraising and no auctions. There are still a few spots available; if you or your organization would like to make a substantial contribution to be part of this amazing event, please contact Don Ochsenreiter by  email, or call him at 407-385-1248. Read More Here.

Date Night In

Valentine’s Day already? Feb. 14 is just around the corner, and it falls on a Tuesday this year. With travel, kids, work and chores, we all know it can be difficult to plan and pull off a relaxed and special night out, especially mid-week. And on holidays like Valentine’s Day, your favorite restaurant may already be booked for the evening, or overcrowded. So why not celebrate at home? You can make an everyday meal a special occasion by choosing a wine and meal pairing that you’ll prepare and enjoy together. Mike and I like to make pizza or flatbread, or sometimes pasta. The prep is easy; so is the cleanup. Just light a candle, set out some nice flowers, put on your favorite music and enjoy the time together and at home with the kids. Sometimes, simplicity is best. Here’s a recipe for Spaghetti Carbonara that we might pair with 59 Red this year. And by the way, there's a special Valentine's offer for 59 Red for online purchases; just type in the code "Valentine" at checkout.

The A List

In golf and in cooking, having the right tools makes all the difference. In my kitchen, my Le Creuset Dutch oven is an indispensable part of my equipment. I received the pot as a gift a few years ago; I love it and use it for so many things, like soups, stews and an all-time favorite, pasta Bolognese. The Le Creuset pots help you simmer, braise and slow-cook foods to lock in flavor and moisture, and they’re durable and great-looking. You can see my well-used and well-loved version pictured here in “linen,” but Le Creuset has several fun colors like “flame,” “aubergine” and “ocean” in addition to favorites like red and cobalt blue. Read More Here.