As the first season winds down, a few thoughts

I just got back from France, having stayed at a resort about 10 miles east of Cannes. The resort had its own 9-hole golf course, a sloppy, hilly course with deep grass, short distances to the flag, and very narrow fairways. Oh, and domed greens. There were only two par-4s on the course, and woods were banned on all but three holes. It was a great learning experience, because I played the same course every day for about a week.

So I'm thinking, "what have I learned?" Other than the fact that there's no danger of me turning pro, a few thoughts:

1.
Playing with about 7 clubs total works just fine for me. After getting my first set of real, shiny new, grown-up clubs, I realize that I won't be able to use all of them for a long time. I've taken out clubs that I've never hit correctly on the range, thinking that they'll work on an actual course. The facts say different. Plus, you can walk the course with less weight. My well-hit 7-iron shot will be worth more than my errant 4-iron shot for now.

2.
It never feels that bad sending a range ball into a net or skittering in front of a golfer 20 stalls beside you. Playing with an honest fear of slicing or hooking a ball into someone's balcony, or through someone's car windshield puts new perspective on 'keeping the ball in play.' It reinforces a good habit: to err on the side of short, playable shots rather than hunting for your ball.
(I actually saw a windshield that had been hit by a golfball - spectacular!)

I played my best round keeping the shots short, and reasonably on target. Plus, the game didn't feel half as stressful when I consciously chose to hit conservatively; it kept the game fun and relaxed. Worst part of being a beginner is holding up the group and feeling like you're the caboose, looking for lost balls, etc.

3.
I've got to practice on grass more. I hit thin for many reasons, but one reason I'm aware of is because I'm still skittish about jarring my elbow on the turf; I've got to learn to take a decent divot. I may buy one of those fuzzy mats to take with me to the range, and plant the ball deep in it and practice hitting that way. In France, the fairways were on hills, and the grass was cut deep.


Best part of the France trip was focusing on little things like chips from the fringe of the green, making great strides in putting and reading greens, and the amazement at how the same course could feel different day after day.

I'm hooked.

A happy Fall to all.