Sorry, T.J., but ‘Barbie’ Is More Than a Doll

It’s hard to comprehend the message T. J. Simers was trying to convey in his article about LPGA golfer Natalie Gulbis [April 6]. After spending several hours with her playing golf, what does he tell us? The first third of his article dwells on the fact that -- get this -- a pro golfer has calluses on her hands! Wow, there’s a scoop. From there, Simers goes downhill. After a brief, almost passing and clearly reluctant acknowledgment of her talent, the remainder of the article seems determined to disparage her by unfair comparisons to Anna Kournikova and castigating her for her good looks.

Now, one doesn’t expect Pulitzer-quality material from Simers, to be sure, but T.J., did you happen to notice that your little “Barbie” tied for 20th at this tournament?

Mike Ross

Simi Valley