Many of the local golf courses open tomorrow, Friday May 1st. It is an exciting day for my game as I can finally shake off the cobwebs and hit the links with a huge smile on my face. Every year about this time many golfers in northern climes prepare for a short golf season that lasts between six and seven months. During this preparation, many players go through a well practiced routine that enables them to hit the links ready, able and willing to loop the links. Right now we are still in the single digits for temperatures, but a few layers and I will be ready to play. There is so much to look forward too that helps build my anticipation for playing my most favourite sport.

The first annual event is World Hickory Golf Day! It happens on Sunday, May 3, this year it is always a fun time to use my hickory sticks. Usually, it is the first time of the year I play a round of golf and it is a great way to start. This year, my friend Charlie and I are going to play at our local course (if it is open) to celebrate this fun event. However, if you are in the Greater Toronto Area, think about joining the Golf Historical Society of Canada at the Cambridge Golf Course. Here are the detalis:

WORLD HICKORY GOLF DAY is being celebrated in many countries this Sunday, May 3, 2026. Our own local version of the event is being held at Cambridge Golf Course on that day. This is always a great event, and it will again be hosted by Lorne Emery, GHSC President. Tee times start at 12:00 noon. Get our flyer HERE. YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS THIS DAY! More details here.

The Golf Historical Society of Canada has many events to celebrate golf If you check out there website you will find events happening near you: https://ghsc.ca/upcoming-events-2026/ If you are new to hickory golf or just a golf enthusiast I recommend you check out the GHSC.

As in years past, I have set up my indoor driving range. I purchased a new hitting mat this year and it makes all the difference. Being able to hit the ball before the course opens is a real benefit. I am starting to find that it takes a bit longer to get geared up for the season, so this type of event is very helpful.

I know it looks a a bit crowded, but it is not. The hitting mat is 4 feet by 5 feet and offers plenty of room for the odd wayward shots. Regardless, it is perfect for my needs and I am enjoying hitting some golf balls during this ramp up to golf season.

As in the past, when I first hit the links, score is not an important aspect of my game. I just enjoy the serenity of playing golf the quiet embrace of nature. It is good for my soul and state of mind. I find that walking the course in a steady pace provides the opportunity to block out the other noises of life. Not that I my life is challenging, and I am grateful for that, but it helps me connect with myself. It might sound strange, but it real is therapeutic. Life is just better when I get a chance to golf.

Golf season is days away. It is the time of year where many moving parts in my life emerge, but it is all manageable when I can hit the links. I am not exactly sure when I will be hitting the Mattawa Golf and Ski Resort, but when I do, you will be hearing about it.

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