Lessons from golf applied everywhere

I have a deep and abiding love for golf that has been a part of my life since I was a child. It all began when I started caddying for my dad at Audubon, and my journey through the world of golf has been filled with unforgettable moments and experiences. From my early days learning the game to competitive events and humorous discussions at the 19th hole, golf has been a constant source of joy and camaraderie in my life.

Caddying and Hand-Me-Down Clubs:

My golfing journey kicked off as I followed my dad around the picturesque greens of Audubon while caddying for him. I still remember the day we headed out to South Shore to purchase his annual set of clubs from Iggy Banko. It was a rite of passage for me as I received the hand-me-down set, a tradition in our family. Those clubs marked the beginning of my golf career, and I couldn’t have been more excited to step into the world of golf. It was my turn to shine on the fairways after my brothers, Tim and Dan, had received their clubs the previous year.

High School, College, and Competitive Golf:

My golf journey didn’t stop with those hand-me-down clubs. I went on to play golf in high school and college, which further fueled my passion for the game. Competing in various events, from scrambles to invitations, gave me the opportunity to hone my skills and share memorable moments with fellow golf enthusiasts. One of the highlights was participating in the Lockport Invitation with my dad, an event where we came tantalizingly close to victory.

The Art of Plum Bobbing:

Recently, I was discussing plum bobbing with some friends, and it struck me how every golfer has their own unique take on this technique. My own approach to plum bobbing has been shaped by a book a friend recommended and the wisdom I gained from Mike Bender’s golf school. However, I can’t help but smile when I think of my dad, one of the finest putters I’ve known, who relied on his instincts, wrists, and feel when it came to putting. Plum bobbing, while a valuable skill, sometimes feels like it could have been a humorous addition to a golf classic like Caddyshack.

The Ultimate Finish:

One of the greatest stories I have in my golfing journey is how my friends in a close-knit group helped me reach the finish line. It’s a testament to the camaraderie and support that the golfing community can offer.

Reflecting on that remarkable day, I find solace in the enduring legacy of golf’s greatest icons. The sight of Tom Watson, Jack Nicklaus, and Gary Player, teeing off at the Masters, serves as a poignant reminder of the timeless allure of the game. Theirs is a story of resilience, of transcending the boundaries of age and time. As I gaze upon images capturing their prowess in youth juxtaposed with the seasoned grace they exhibit today, I’m filled with a sense of anticipation for the years ahead.

For just as they have navigated the peaks and valleys of their golfing careers with grace and fortitude, so too do I look forward to the journey that lies ahead. With every swing, every putt, I am reminded that golf is not merely a game of skill but a lifelong pursuit of joy and camaraderie. And as I tee off into the next 20+ years, I do so with a heart full of gratitude for the memories made and the adventures yet to come.

Future Plans and a Glimpse of the 19th Hole:

Should I ever get around to writing a book, there’s no doubt that one of the chapters will be dedicated to golf and all its quirks and intricacies. Here’s a humorous glimpse into some of the topics and discussions we’ve all engaged in at the 19th hole, the heart of post-round camaraderie:

• Playing Number 11 at Brookfield: How to properly line up your fourth putt – it’s no gimme.
• Helping your opponent organize and count the clubs in his bag.
• Hitting a Callaway from the rough when you hit a Titleist from the tee.
• Avoiding the water when you lie 8 in a bunker.
• Getting more distance off the shank – a skill in its own right.
• Knowing when to give the Ranger a heads up.
• Using your shadow on the greens to maximize earnings.
• Implementing handicap management strategically.
• Rationalizing a six-hour round – an art form.
• The quest for that ball everyone else saw go into the water.
• The harsh truth: No one cares that you birdied the 5th.
• The etiquette of letting a foursome play through your twosome.
• Maintaining composure when you’re hitting five off the tee.
• Offering swing advice to your opponent – carefully.
• The birdie-to-bogey three-putt and its unique frustrations.
• The art of planning a footprint in your opponent’s path without them noticing.
• Marking your ball as if you’re playing tiddleywink.
• The secret to getting free carts from your club pro.
• Giving yourself a generous three-footer – “who’s it hurting?” philosophy.
• The subtle act of pocketing your opponent’s ball while still assisting in the search.
• The dilemma of taking advice from someone who has no clue how to plumb bob.

Golf is more than just a sport; it’s a lifelong journey filled with experiences, camaraderie, and laughter. From my early days on the course to the humorous discussions at the 19th hole, golf has given me countless memories and a passion that will continue to burn bright. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting, there’s always something new and exciting waiting for you on the greens.

Lockport Invitation 1993

Always worth hitting it our of the water. Well sometimes.