Do you remember the first golf lesson you ever received? For some, it was from a professional, for others (like myself) it was from my Dad. He taught me so many things on and off the golf course, I consider myself blessed that he was in my life albeit for too short of a time. Every once in a while, I remember his my first lesson he taught and believe I have honoured him during every round of golf I play!

The very first lesson my Dad taught me was to always be a gentlemen on (and off) the golf course. I will admit I have faulter in my efforts once in a very long while, but for the majority of the time I have conducted myself as a gentlemen. I believe that when on the golf course we should:

• treat my playing partners with respect
• be honest
• be polite
• respect the game

These things might seem foreign to others, however they are fundamental to my approach to golf. Each person can apply my tenets as they see fit, but I try to keep others at the forefront of how I play and hope they enjoy playing with me as much I as I do with them. Golf is a contact sport and connecting with other golfers in a positive manner is really what drives me to be a gentlemen on and off the course.

I owe so much to my Dad for how I approach golf. He was a true gentlemen and he passed valuable lessons to men early in my career and it has impacted all the years of my life. For this I am truly grateful.

I want to shift tracks a bit and include my Mom. She started golf later in life and became a student of the game very quickly. My Dad also passed on my first lesson to her and it was evident in how she approached the game. I remember playing in several tournaments with her and appreciating the fact that we both approach golf in the same manner.

I miss playing golf with my parents, they taught me so much about how to play golf as a gentlemen. I expect that things will not change moving forward. If we ever get a chance to play golf with you, I hope that you see the teachings of my Dad and Mom. It is my lighthouse in a storm and I am grateful my Dad took the time to teach my the importance of playing golf like a gentlemen.

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!