Four Bad Holes

May 9, 2013May 9, 2013 / The Grateful Golfer / 1 Comment

Today I played Timberwolf Golf Course in Sudbury, Ontario. Our pilgrimage to this course was well worth the trip. The fairways were in great shape and the greens were in pretty good shape. We played in under 4 hours and everyone had a great time.

As games go, I was fairly consistent. I drove the ball well, chipped strong and lag-putted very well. Overall, I was very happy with my round. Unfortunately, I had four bad holes. I am not complaining, but it does baffle me sometimes when I can shoot 6 pars in a row….then a triple. On the first hole, I was not warmed up and for my lack of preparation I was given a double from the course and I was not in any trouble! The other double, I actually lost a ball and lipped out for a bogey…so that was okay. The last bad hole was a bogey on the second hole….such is life. So if you are adding up my score, it was an 80 with a triple, 2 doubles and a bogey. Actually, a pretty solid round.

So what did I learn today? I must start implementing my pre-playing routine. I must use my own advice and take 5 minutes in my car to focus my mind before hopping out and running to the tee. I must practice my putting and chipping before I start. And finally, I must make sure I have all my equipment ready before going to the course….it helps reduce my panic of gathering my stuff!

Today was excellent. As I do every-time I play, I learn something….or in this case relearn something. Pre-playing routine is important to eliminating four bad holes!

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

Grateful to be Golfing

May 8, 2013 / The Grateful Golfer / 2 Comments

Well, I have two games under my belt and each time I played my game was a bit better. The first round I was lucky to finish because I was tired and not at all ready for a round of golf. But, I was grateful to be playing and I have not complaints.

The second round was more interesting. Each hole was an adventure. I would drive well and chip like a clown. I would chip well and putt like a wimp! I would putt well….actually I putted terrible because I 3-putted 7 greens. I am not really disappointed though because this is exactly how every year starts. On a side note, I shot 80 on the second round….44 – 36.

Regardless of the score, these are the things I am grateful for:

Playing in the beautiful sun.
Putting for eagle….and no I did not leave it short!
Two birdies in on the back nine.
Hitting four greens in a row in regulation.
Playing with two of my very good friends.
Laughing, smiling, and joking around for 4 hours.

I am off to play golf tomorrow with three of my friends. It is going to be fun and a little sad. One of my friends is retiring from the military and starting a new chapter in his life. We only have a short time left to play as much golf as possible. He will be missed, but not forgotten.

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

1 Down 79 to Go

May 5, 2013 / The Grateful Golfer / 6 Comments

This year, I hope to match my last years number of 80 rounds. In the short northern Canada season it is difficult, but at least it something to shoot for! Yesterday was my first round. I have scored as low as 1 over at Osprey Golf Links, however yesterday was not the case. I did shoot close to what I expected after only hitting 40 balls at the range on Friday.

I could go into all the poor shots I made (and there were a few), but that is not what this blog is about! It is about being grateful for playing golf and focusing on the fun and positive aspects of hitting the links. So here is what was great yesterday.

I played with two of my good friends. We laughed, cried, joked, and supported each other around 18 holes of fun in the sun. I have golfed quite often with these guys and every time I walk away feeling happy and grateful. That is what good friends are all about.

The weather was fantastic. A little wind, bright and sunny, no bugs and the temperature was perfect – 23 degrees Celsius.

I made great contact on some of my shots. Especially with my new Callaway Razr Fit Driver and 3 Wood. I have added about 10 – 15 yards distance from my old clubs. I am excited because using these clubs should only get better as the season unfolds.

I chipped pretty well. My 52 degree Vokey Wedge was working extremely well. However, my 56 and 60 degree wedges need some work. Although, my best shot came from my 60 degree wedge. I was 5 yards off the green and the pin was 10 paces on. The grass was thick, so I opened the face slightly, swung with a firm grip and flopped the ball within 6 inches of the hole….and yes I made the putt. My short game will get better, especially when I practice!

Lastly, I carried my clubs. Some may not think that this is something to be grateful for, but I do because I like to carry if possible. Golf is a sport that does require a certain level of physical fitness and carrying my clubs is a good indicator if I am ready for the golf season. I am not far off, so I will be hitting the gym next week.

Yesterday’s round of golf was fantastic. It was a great way to start my season. I am looking forward to getting out there on Monday or Tuesday!

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

I Should Have Brought A Shovel!

May 3, 2013January 18, 2018 / The Grateful Golfer / 6 Comments

After long last, I made it to out golfing. Being away last week during the fantastic weather delayed my yearly pilgrimage to the driving range. Today, a friend of mine and I shared a large bucket of balls….about 40 balls each. That was enough for me. Unfortunately, the chipping and putting area were closed, but that is okay. I will definitely be practicing my short game very soon.

As I hit started to hit balls, I realized something: I should have brought a shovel! I was digging and scooping and, and, and! It was not pretty. I did hit a few good shots with my 7-iron, 3 wood and driver. However, I planted a garden with the rest.

The main reason I only hit a few balls is to reacquaint my body with golf. The twisting and moving of my hips and back. Trying not to hold the club too tight. The alignment of my body to the direction I want to hit. All these are important and my experience is not to over do the first time out.

Tomorrow, I hit the links…not that I am ready, but the season started late this year so I am going to compressing my preseason routine. It was great to swing a club today. I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!

AW Come On!

April 25, 2013 / The Grateful Golfer / 6 Comments

It is 26 April and we woke up to this – SNOW!!!! Normally, I am pretty upbeat but really, come on, when is going to end! Well actually, it is over. The weather is shifting and we will be hitting double-digit highs next week. It really is about time!

This is most difficult time of the year for golfers. We wait patiently for spring and every day like today is another body blow. However, we are tough and we will take it without fear because we know the warm weather is around the corner.

I have heard the rumors and stories of when the courses in the area are going to open and I can hardly wait. I am very confident the driving ranges will be open next week and golf season will officially begin. So goodbye snow and move over for the warm sunshine of spring.

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