After a long, long winter of waiting for the temperatures to rise, the day has finally arrived. Well, actually, it is tomorrow, but I am excited to report there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Some of the local courses are starting their season and I can finally take my clubs out of storage because I will need them very soon. I am not golfing tomorrow, but have a game scheduled for Sunday…..a very special day for golf!

On May 4, 2025, Golf Historical Society of Canada (GHSC) will host its version of World Hickory Golf Day at Cambridge Golf Club, GHSC’s home course. This season-welcoming event was held at various golf clubs throughout the hickory golf-playing world.

I have attended several World Hickory Golf Days and I am looking forward to connecting with some friends (old and new). Lorne Emery, President of the Golf Historical Society of Canada, and his team of dedicated hickory ambassadors are the main driving forces for this wonderful day and the growth of hickory golf in Canada. The introduced me to the hickory game about six years ago and it has stuck. Therefore, this Sunday, I will journey to Cambridge Golf Club to play my first round of the year. Using hickory golf clubs seems fitting and I am looking forward to seeing how my swing responds.

I find playing hickory golf clubs a great challenge. It forces me to swing these clubs under control and with intent. It is interesting that clubs that are over 100 years old can still perform in such a manner that surprises everyone who gives them a whirl. Playing golf, regardless of the clubs you use, is a great adventure and I find great joy in using vintage clubs. It always seems to bring out the best in my game.

As my golf season opens this weekend, I am planning (as always) to improve my game. But most of all, I play to enjoy my time on the links. Having fun, chatting with like minded golfers, and spinning a few yarns is really what golf is all about. If you are hitting the links for the first time this year, have fun and remember to be grateful.

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