Is it possible to be serious about improving your golf game and, at the same time, not take yourself too seriously? After all, I have heard that the majority of all golfers never break 100. Why then do so many normally confident and upbeat people become intensely serious and self-deprecating when they hit the golf course? Last year on a girl’s golf trip to Arizona, I noticed that many of my golf buddies groan, moan, swear, scream, hoot and/or holler each and every time they hit the ball. Before we tee off apologies are given for how awful they play. I know it’s annoying …I do it too. I am also guilty of talking to my ball…belittling the ball for having a mind of its own and hoping to change its fateful outcome. Never mind that the ball might be going exactly where I intended it to go…OMG…no, no, not there….oh yes, yes, please…whoppee…thank you!!! This summer I will have no apologies for my golf game. There are too many legitimate reasons to be grave and serious…tragic earthquakes, devastating floods and tornadoes, a country at war, illness, and countless other personal, national and global challenges. Let’s put things in perspective…golf is game and should be enjoyed!
I’ve never been to Pinehurst although I hope that one day I might I have the opportunity to play there. I’ve heard that posted on the wall of the clubhouse, is the “Creed of the Amateur.” Written by Richard Tufts (1896 -1980), once known as “Mr. Golf”, a former USGA president and rules expert who opposed the commercialism of the sport, the creed signifies to me the reason why any average guy or gal would spend weekends, their precious vacation time or retirement pursuing a game. If we all embraced Tufts’ view of the sport of golf, it seems to me we would have an even greater infatuation for this game.
| CREED OF THE AMATEUR In my mind, an amateur is one who competes in a sport for the joy of playing, for the companionship it affords, for health-giving exercise, and for relaxation from more serious matters. As a part of this light-hearted approach to the game, he accepts cheerfully all adverse breaks, is considerate of his opponent, plays the game fairly and squarely in accordance with its rules, maintains self-control, and strives to do his best, not in order to win, but rather as a test of his own skill and ability. These are his only interests, and, in them, material considerations have no part. The returns which amateur sport will bring to those who play it in this spirit are greater than those any money could buy. Richard S. Tufts | |
Now seriously, this is something to aspire to!
Happy Golfing!
Patti
