Making the Turn…
To the casual golfer and in fact some who play the great game on a regular basis, its assumed that you must play the front 9, and make the turn to play the back.
I’ve actually had the experience where a playing partner balked at a quick 9 and proclaim, “It’s just not worth the effort”…
Recently a local professional athlete with national notoriety was offered complimentary golf at the course where I used to work and now play. A historic hotel sits 1 mile down the hill from this incredible 1928 Donald Ross design where he and his family are staying. I know he plays golf and believe lives on a golf course out West.
Yet I don’t think he will tee it up during his stay, even with the gracious offer from the GM which includes green fees, cart and Taylormade M2 rental clubs. Additionally, the hotel offers a shuttle service from the hotel to the course and back.
So I totally understand that family comes first, particularly with an infant and relatives living in the area. Believe me I would not blame him if he simply can’t find the time or someone that wants to join him for golf!
But I honestly believe part of the reason for many that decide simply not to play, is that they assume that “Making the Turn” is a prerequisite. That of course means, 18 holes, an average of 4 hours or more, not including warming up at the range and travel time.
A few years ago the USGA initiated a “Play 9” marketing campaign to help grow the game. They even had PGA player Rickie Fowler in one of the national ads. Not sure if it had any impact on the estimated 25 million or so that sometimes play, but it was a good effort.
Some of my favorite times on a golf course include when I played 9 alone, with only my thoughts or the music plugged into my ears. Playing 9 after the shop closes with the boys at the Sagamore is more than enough time for me!
So consider the pro’s and con’s of “Making the Turn” if you love the game but just think you don’t have the time. Most of my “breakthroughs” have happened during a 9 hole practice round, as I tried to “Find my game before I lost my Mind“…
Tee it up and Let it Fly!