Grateful Golfer

#GolfChat and The Olympics

/ The Grateful Golfer / 6 Comments

Where does golf fit into the picture.  In a previous post, Golf – an Olympic Sport, I mentioned that the 2016 Olympics are in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The planning for the return of golf was in the works for years, but not that it is here, there seems to a question of whether its return will be well received. With many of the worlds best male golfers opting out of the Olympics this year, it is difficult to determine if golf needed the Olympics or the other way around.

I will remind everyone that reigning Olympic Gold Medalist is Canadian George Lyon. Limited to two countries back in 1904 (Canada and the USA) Rio organizers hope for at least 30 countries to be represented in both the men’s and women’s competitions, from all continents. The organizers have already exceeded that goal with 41 countries vying for gold in golf.

I really do not have an opinion whether golf is good for the Olympics or vice versa, however some of my fellow #GOLFCHAT authors have put pen to paper and I thought I would share their views.  Continue reading →

Finding Inspiration on the Golf Course

/ The Grateful Golfer / 4 Comments

I thought that finding inspiration on the golf course was an easy thing. It is easy to hit a good ball and realize that you found a  fix for a current woe. It is easy to watch a beautiful sunrise and be caught up in the breath-taking moment. It is easy to foster the desire to play golf regularly. These situations, and many others, can inspire golfers to want to play golf. I have discussed many of these positive and inspiring events at The Grateful Golfer, but after being partnered with Les last Wednesday for Men’s Night, I am not so sure I understood the meaning of inspiration.

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Using a Lob Wedge With Success

/ The Grateful Golfer / 6 Comments

Using a 60 degree lob wedge with success is sometimes very difficult. Many amateurs like the idea of using this club, but find it difficult execute these delicate shots. It does not help watching players like Phil Mickelson use their lob wedge like scalpels on the golf course as if it was a natural extension of his body. But, I would suggest that his skill was rooted in hours of repetitive practice.
Recently, I came across a learning opportunity (I call them teaching moments so I remember them for future use) for successfully using your 60 degree wedge. The lob wedge (see infographics on wedges) is used near the green to quickly elevate your ball over difficult terrain to stop the ball quickly near the hole. This is easy to say, however there is a bit more to it.

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The Grateful Golfer Being Grateful

/ The Grateful Golfer / 2 Comments

We have talked about gratitude quite extensively at The Grateful Golfer. I believe it is the cornerstone to great golf, however golf is not the only thing being grateful enhances. I always try to improve my 3 foot space around me every day. I think it is important to leave a situation, place, or encounter in better condition than when I found it. This tall task is sometimes very difficult, but I believe it is a worthy cause to pursue whenever possible.

To this end, I do find it difficult to ask for help because I sometimes feel that I am imposing on others or being a bother. However, I have learned over the past 10 years or so, that it is important to ask for help when really needed. As many of you know, I asked for help just two days ago. I was astounded by what I received!

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Tranquility on the Golf Course

/ The Grateful Golfer / 11 Comments

Tranquility is priceless on the golf course! Yesterday, I talked about playing solo on the golf course and remaining in the moment for the entire round! I am happy to announce that this mission was accomplished. What a fantastic time on the links!

I started my round at 5:45 am (finished in 2 hours and 25 minutes) with a large coffee in hand. As I pulled up to the golf course, I was the only car in the parking lot. The only sounds I was hearing were the beautiful melody of the birds. Unfortunately, I disrupted the calm, only briefly, to prepare for a journey down tranquility lane! My initial feeling of calm was very therapeutic.  Continue reading →