Looking trim

Valencia's own Jason Gore isn't in the 16-player field for the Target World Challenge, but he did drop by to play in the pro-am earlier this week.

The Hart HIgh of Newhall grad, who captured the golf world's imagination a couple of years ago when, as an easy-smiling, slightly-pudgy minor-leaguer, he was in the final pairing at the U.S. Open with Retief Goosen, won't be chunking any shots next season.

He's lost 20 pounds this winter working out four times a week with a guy who trains ultimate fighters.

"I'm not in embarrassing shape. I've been practicing hard and working out. Trying to be ready (for next season) and just be a fitter, better player," Gore said. "You can't get by by getting by anymore. Not with the stuff Tiger does. That's not by accident."

As for his winter break, Gore said he has been hanging out at home.

"Can't complain at all," he said. "If I did, nobody would listen anyway."

Gore predicts some low scores this week at Sherwood Country Club.

"The greens are rolling great," he said. "If they get good weather, they'll shoot
some good scores out here."